Barcelona ready to trigger Rashford buy clause as Chelsea open talks for Vitor Roque
Rashford's revival at Camp Nou
Rashford joined Barcelona on a season-long loan last summer after a difficult spell at Old Trafford that included a stint at Aston Villa in the second half of 2024-25. The turnaround has been sharp. He has scored 10 goals and provided 13 assists in 36 appearances across all competitions, with five of those goals coming in just eight Champions League games.
Barcelona sit four points clear at the top of La Liga, and Rashford has been a big part of that. He helped them win the Spanish Super Cup against Real Madrid earlier in the season.
Reports indicate personal terms have already been agreed on a three-year deal, with the 28-year-old accepting a significant salary cut to comply with La Liga's financial fair play rules. Barcelona plan to spread the €30 million fee across three instalments to ease the burden on their budget.
Manchester United are understood to be resigned to losing Rashford permanently. There is a growing feeling at Old Trafford that he has played his last game for the club.
Chelsea target Vitor Roque
Chelsea's pursuit of Vitor Roque adds another thread to a busy summer market. The Blues have offered €50 million for the 21-year-old Brazilian forward, though Palmeiras consider the bid too low. Roque's contract runs until December 2029, giving the Brazilian club leverage.
Roque moved to Palmeiras from Barcelona in February 2025 for around €25.5 million plus €5 million in add-ons, after a disappointing spell in Europe that included a loan at Real Betis. He has since found his groove in Brazil, scoring 25 goals and adding six assists in 69 appearances.
Barcelona stand to benefit from any deal. They retained a sell-on clause entitling them to 20 percent of the total fee if it exceeds €40 million, meaning a €50 million sale would net them around €10 million.
What it means for both clubs
For Barcelona, the Rashford deal is shrewd business. They get a player who has proved himself in their system at a price well below his peak market value. For Chelsea, landing Roque would fit their strategy of targeting young, high-potential forwards, though they will likely need to raise their offer to get Palmeiras to negotiate.
