In a week filled with speculation about his future, Rashford responded with a solid performance. In Barcelona's 2-0 La Liga win over Getafe on Saturday, the 28-year-old English star came off the bench and scored a goal to seal the victory. After this win, Barcelona now leads Real Madrid by 11 points, with only five league matches remaining—their title triumph is merely a matter of time. Barcelona could potentially clinch the title early in the El Clásico on May 10 when Real Madrid visits Camp Nou.

Rashford's goal showcased his signature style: Barcelona launched a quick counterattack, Lewandowski provided the through pass, and Rashford used his speed to sprint forward, facing the goalkeeper alone and slotting a low shot into the net. Coach Flick praised the importance of his goal after the match: "Marcus (Rashford) came on in the second half and made full use of the space left by the opponents. I'm delighted he scored this goal for the team, and it will surely bring him joy. This goal is very important for him, and for us as well."
Manchester United loaned Rashford to Barcelona this season with a €30 million (£26 million) buyout clause. However, rumors this week suggest Barcelona will not activate that clause; they intend to negotiate with the Red Devils for a lower price, but United is unwilling to reduce it.
Spanish newspaper "Daily Sport" reports that Barcelona's sporting director Deco and coach Hans Flick agree that spending excessive funds on player transfer fees and salaries is inappropriate. Nevertheless, Rashford proved with his 13th goal that he can play a significant role even from Barcelona's bench.
Now, Rashford is almost certain to secure his first league championship trophy in his career, but whether he can continue his "dream of playing for Barcelona" requires further effort. For instance, scoring against Real Madrid would add the heaviest weight to his transfer prospects.

It is said that Barcelona had initially reached a personal agreement with Rashford, but changed their mind based on two major reasons. First, Rashford's form has declined significantly; he scored 10 goals before January, but has only managed three since. Especially with recent injuries to Raphinha and Yamal, it was supposed to be his golden opportunity. In three matches against Atlético Madrid, Rashford scored only once, and Flick did not include him in the starting lineup, indicating reduced reliance on him—Fermín López is currently viewed as Barcelona's starter.
The second, and more serious issue, relates to financial circumstances. Although Rashford's buyout fee is only €30 million, far below his valuation (€38.5 million), his wages are too high. Even if he agrees to a salary reduction, it would still represent a substantial expense.
Under the strict constraints of La Liga's financial fair play regulations, Barcelona now prioritizes signing a left-footed center-back and a striker, lowering the importance of buying Rashford.
This could lead to a lose-lose outcome: Rashford's dream of playing at Camp Nou may be shattered, and while Manchester United believes they can recall this England international and sell him at a higher price, it is actually not easy. With Barcelona's buyout clause in place, any club interested in signing Rashford—if any exists—would not offer more than this amount.

Moreover, worse still, Rashford is willing to reduce his salary for Barcelona, but may not agree to do so if joining another club. This means Manchester United might have to continue bearing the full £325,000 weekly wage, or a portion of it, if he is loaned out again.