Marcus Rashford Transfer Update: Man Utd Weighing Up Shock Swap Deals with AC Milan and Barcelona

Manchester United have been presented with two major swap deal proposals that could bring a permanent end to Marcus Rashford’s career at Old Trafford.

The 28-year-old forward is currently scheduled to return to his parent club this summer following a season-long loan at Barcelona. However, that outcome could shift dramatically depending on how United bosses respond to incoming offers from Italy and Spain.

Proposal 1: AC Milan Offer Rafael Leão in Straight Swap

The first potential deal would see Rashford head to Serie A, with AC Milan offering Portuguese winger Rafael Leão in exchange. Leão, who holds a staggering £131 million release clause, has long been linked with a move to Old Trafford, and reports suggest the Italian giants are genuinely open to the trade.

The prospect of a straight swap has already gained the backing of Manchester United legend Jaap Stam. Speaking to ComeOn, the former defender noted:

"Maybe a swap between Rafael Leão and Marcus Rashford could work. Leão is a good player; he has shown his potential at Milan. I think he is a player that should be on the list of targets for Man Utd.

Having said that, you need to look not only at the skill of a player, but also at the mentality... so that you don’t get any irritations from players who are not being picked to start."

Proposal 2: Barcelona Eye Midfield Trade Involving Marc Casadó

The second route involves keeping Rashford at the Nou Camp permanently. According to Mundo Deportivo, Manchester United have entered the race for Barcelona’s 22-year-old Spanish international midfielder, Marc Casadó.

A player-plus-cash or straight exchange involving Casadó could offer Barcelona a direct path to securing Rashford full-time without needing to trigger his £26 million purchase option. This move aligns with United manager Michael Carrick’s urgent priority to reinforce the midfield following Casemiro’s departure.

De Jong Backs Rashford to Stay in Catalonia

While Barcelona have yet to officially activate their purchase clause, talks over the transfer fee are ongoing. Rashford has enjoyed a resurgent season in Spain, racking up 14 goals and 14 assists in 49 appearances across all competitions.

His impressive form has prompted Barcelona teammate Frenkie de Jong to publicly lobby for the English forward to stay. Speaking to Sport, De Jong praised Rashford's impact:

"In the minutes he’s played, he has given us a lot: goals, assists, depth. He is a fast player who threatens rival defences. I would be delighted if he continued with us. He arrived here with a lot of enthusiasm... and from the first moment, you could see that he wanted to stay."

With Rashford's future hanging in the balance and two credible European giants offering swap routes, the coming weeks will prove decisive for Manchester United's summer transfer strategy.