Pundit calls the situation a “farce” and urges Manchester United to stand firm
Gary Neville has criticised Barcelona over reports the club are attempting to renegotiate the agreed purchase clause for Marcus Rashford.
The Manchester United forward moved to Spain on loan last summer but Barcelona can make his stay permanent in the coming window if they pay a pre-agreed £26m fee to secure his services.
“Rashford moved to Barcelona, played over 40 games, scored 11 goals and provided more than 10 assists – he looked dangerous once again,” said Neville. “The player deserves credit. He has certainly regained his form.”
“But now Barcelona want to say they can’t pay the full agreed sum of £26m? That’s ridiculous!”
The pundit added that United had acted reasonably when structuring the deal, especially given the forward’s situation at the time of the move.
“Manchester United loaned him out at a time when the club desperately needed to, and included a very reasonable clause in the contract,” said Neville. “Rashford performed well, his market value rose slightly, and suddenly they want to haggle? No, that is unacceptable.
“United must stand firm. End this farce. This is how Barcelona operate in every window. If you want the player, pay what you agreed or send him back. It’s that simple.”
