Tottenham and Aston Villa remain interested as Marcus Rashford waits on Barcelona decision

Manchester United are reportedly growing frustrated with the lack of progress surrounding Marcus Rashford's future as Barcelona continue to delay a final decision over a permanent transfer.

The England international enjoyed an impressive season on loan at the Camp Nou, contributing 14 goals and 14 assists while helping Barcelona secure the La Liga title. Despite those performances, uncertainty remains over whether the Spanish champions will activate their reported €30 million purchase option.

As the situation drags on, Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa are both monitoring developments closely.

Rashford's preference remains clear.

The 28-year-old wants to continue his career at Barcelona after rediscovering his best form under Hansi Flick. However, reports in Spain suggest the Catalan club are reluctant to trigger the €30 million clause currently available to them.

Instead, Barcelona are reportedly exploring alternative options, including negotiating a reduced fee or potentially securing another loan arrangement.

According to Mundo Deportivo, sources close to Rashford have denied reports that Barcelona have already submitted a €15 million bid to Manchester United.

As things stand, no formal communication has reportedly taken place between the clubs regarding a permanent deal.

Barcelona are believed to have until June 15 to decide whether they will activate the agreed purchase option.

While Rashford's focus remains on Barcelona, Manchester United are aware there are alternative options available.

Reports in Spain claim both Tottenham and Aston Villa remain interested in the forward and could become more active if Barcelona fail to reach an agreement.

For Aston Villa, a move would represent a renewed attempt to secure a player they previously tried to keep following his successful loan spell at Villa Park in early 2025.

Tottenham, meanwhile, continue searching for attacking reinforcements and have already been linked with Rashford in recent weeks.

Having followed Tottenham's transfer strategy under Roberto De Zerbi, adding versatility and proven Premier League quality to the frontline remains a priority heading into the new campaign.

The June 15 deadline could prove decisive.

Barcelona must determine whether to activate the existing clause, negotiate a reduced fee or abandon the deal altogether. If no agreement is reached, Manchester United are expected to intensify discussions with alternative suitors.

Tottenham and Aston Villa are both positioned to react quickly should the opportunity arise, but much depends on whether Rashford is prepared to consider options outside Barcelona.

For now, the player's future remains unresolved, although one thing appears increasingly certain: he is unlikely to play for Manchester United again.

Would Marcus Rashford be a bigger signing for Tottenham or Aston Villa, or should Barcelona find a way to keep him at the Camp Nou?