Liverpool star could hold the key to Marcus Rashford's Manchester United transfer exit route

Marcus Rashford's hopes of signing for Barcelona could be scuppered as reports in Spain reckon that the La Liga giants would prefer to target Liverpool forward Luis Diaz and Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak, instead of Manchester United's wantaway forward.

According to a report from Mundo Deportivo - via Sport Witness - Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick is looking to improve his squad and they would like to sign Liverpool's Diaz, Isak or even AC Milan star Rafael Leao. However, a proposed move this month is seen as impossible at the Camp Nou.

It has been said that Rashford has been offered to the reigning Spanish champions, who are keen to land the 27-year-old and is a viable option for the club. The United Academy graduate announced in December his desire to explore a new chapter away from United, and he has already rejected approaches from Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

Reports on Tuesday suggested that a meeting had taken place in Lisbon - while Barcelona were in action against Benfica. Sporting director Deco remained coy when pushed on the matter this week.

"If we can bolster the team in the final days of the window, maybe we will try it," Deco said to Spanish TV station Movistar. "But, right now, there is nothing.

"We are still keeping an eye on our financial fair play situation. Our priority is to secure the contract extensions of key players in our squad. After that, if we can look at adding some new players, we might do it.

"But it's not something that has been asked by our manager."

Rashford was all smiles as he trained with his United teammates on Wednesday with Ruben Amorim's side gearing up for their upcoming Europa League clash with Rangers. However, the England international has found himself out of the Portuguese tactician's squads since his arrival - sparking speculation over his future.

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