If Mourinho arrives in Madrid, his first move – stealing Rashford?

Jose Mourinho is said to be preparing an ambitious move this summer to bring Manchester United star Marcus Rashford to Real Madrid. Such a transfer would not only strengthen Madrid’s attack but could also derail Barcelona’s hopes of keeping the England forward after his impressive loan spell in Spain.

Since arriving at Barcelona on loan, Rashford has rediscovered top form and played a key role in Hansi Flick’s squad, helping the club secure both the Supercopa de Espana and the Liga championship. Despite his strong performances, Barcelona are reportedly hesitant to activate the €30 million (£26.2m) buy clause due to ongoing financial concerns.

That uncertainty has opened the door for Mourinho, who is believed to be close to taking charge at the Bernabeu, to consider a dramatic attempt to reunite with his former Manchester United player.

In his Inside Football newsletter, The Independent journalist Miguel Delaney explained how the situation is unfolding and why Mourinho sees Rashford as an attractive option.

Delaney wrote: “If there is significant change, though, some sources close to the situation say Mourinho may add even more intrigue by going for Marcus Rashford. It was reported by the Independent on Thursday that Barcelona face protracted re-negotiation with Manchester United on the forward. Mourinho has an existing good relationship with Rashford and there is a feeling he would love to do it for two reasons: one to get a good player he knows; two to already cause disruption as well as a few problems for Barcelona.”

Rashford, meanwhile, has made it clear that he would like to continue his journey at Camp Nou after contributing 14 goals and 14 assists during the campaign.

Speaking about his experience at the club, he said: “Oh yeah, for sure. I’m enjoying this football club and I think for anybody who loves football, Barcelona is one of the key clubs in the history of the game. For a player it is an honour.”

He later added: “I don’t know. I am not a magician, but if I was, I would stay. We will see. I came here to win. I want to win as many things as I can. This is one more to add to this. This is a wonderful team, they’re going to win so much in the future; to be a part of that would be special.”

Mourinho edging closer to sensational Real Madrid return as exit clause emerges

With Rashfr United while balancing their financial limitations. If talks continue to stall, Mourinho and Real Madrid could seize the opportunity to complete one of the summer’s most controversial transfers.

LA LIGA - MATCHDAY 37

Sunday

20.00: (2.25) Ath.Bilbao (3.15) Celta (3.60)

20.00: (1.77) Atl.Madrid (3.75) Girona (4.50)

20.00: (2.30) Elche (2.95) Getafe (3.80)

20.00: (2.20) Levante (3.50) Mallorca (3.50)

20.00: (2.15) Osasuna (3.45) Espanyol (3.70)

20.00: (3.90) Oviedo (3.50) Alaves (1.95)

20.00: (2.45) Rayo Vallecano (3.40) Villareal (2.85)

20.00: (3.15) Sevilla (3.60) Real Madrid (2.25)

20.00: (2.25) Sociedad (3.50) Valencia (3.40)

22.15: (1.38) Barcelona (5.60) Betis (6.80)

***odds are subject to change***