Marcus Rashford 'agreed' to join Barca in 2017-18 season but pulled out shortly: Report

Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford had reportedly agreed to join Spanish giants Barcelona in 2018. However, he backed out at last moment because he feared he might t fit at Camp u alongside  likes of Lionel Messi. England international went on to pen down a new deal that binds him at Old Trafford until 2023. 

Also Read | Solskjaer counting on Paul Pogba, Marcus Rashford for Premier League restart

Barcelona offered to sign Marcus Rashford in 2017

According to a report by Spanish sports publication Mundo Deportivo, Lionel Messi-led Barcelona first made move for Rashford at start of 2017-18 season. Catalan giants were on hunt for a long-term replacement for striker Luis Suarez and a player to partner Lionel Messi upfront. Barcelona identified Man United striker as ideal replacement. Rashford had made headlines back n for his impressive form with first team. 

Also Read | Marcus Rashford arrives at Manchester United training in new £150,000 Mercedes-AMG G63

Marcus Rashford pulls back from Barcelona transfer

report suggests that Rashford was excited about playing alongside Lionel Messi at Barcelona at first. However, striker decided to pull back at last minute considering fact that he was t ready yet to join a new team as well as shift to a new country with a different lifestyle altoger. Hence, he decided to extend his stay at Man United and has since emerged as one of prominent players at Old Trafford. 

Marcus Rashford leads goal-scoring charts

Rashford has been in an astounding form for Red Devils this season. He is club's leading goalscorer this term with 19 goals and 6 assists in 31 games across all competitions. striker sustained a back injury mid-season but has w recovered completely to be fit in time for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer when Man United return to play after months of lockdown.

Also Read | Marcus Rashford reveals how Romelu Lukaku allowed him to taste UCL glory against PSG

Marcus Rashford stats, Premier League points table

Rashford is in his fifth season at club. 22-year-old has mand 201 appearances for Old Trafford outfit, with 64 goals to his credit. His side are placed fifth on Premier League points table as y look to secure a place in top four to qualify for Champions League next season. Solskjaer's men have bagged 45 points in 29 games, while Liverpool lead charts with 82 points.

Also Read | Andy Murray wins VIP seats for Man United game, beats Marcus Rashford in career quiz