Marcus Rashford plan confirmed by Barcelona as latest setback could cause transfer issue

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Marcus Rashford has been absent from Barcelona's last two matches due to injury. Manager Hansi Flick has now shed light on his strategy for managing the Manchester United loanee's recovery.

Rashford joined the Catalan giants on a temporary basis in the summer and has since become an integral part of the squad . The 28-year-old forward has netted 10 goals across all competitions under Flick this season.

It's understood that a £26million buyout clause is included in Rashford's loan deal with United. Spanish media reports suggest that Barcelona intend to trigger this option, but the striker's recent injury could potentially disrupt these plans.

Before Barcelona's Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Atletico Madrid, it was announced that a knee problem would prevent Rashford from participating. He also sat out Monday night's defeat to Girona and Flick has now detailed the player's comeback strategy.

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Following Barcelona's 2-1 away loss to Girona, Flick discussed Rashford's situation. He stated: "Rashford is better, but he won't be in Girona. We'll take it step by step."

The club appears to be taking a cautious approach with Rashford and this strategy may suggest his injury is more severe than initially thought. Their next fixture is against Levante on Sunday, February 22.

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Concerning Rashford's injury, a club statement released before their cup match against Atletico Madrid said: "The first team player Marcus Rashford has pain in his left knee after taking a blow in the game against Mallorca on Saturday at Spotify Camp Nou."

Spanish publication Sport reported earlier this season that the reigning La Liga champions are looking to make Rashford's move permanent when the campaign concludes. According to the report, Flick and sporting director Deco believe finding another player of Rashford's calibre for £26m would be impossible.

Previous speculation had indicated they wanted to extend Rashford's loan for an additional year or negotiate a reduced fee, but circumstances seem to have shifted. This potential transfer is understood to hinge on one key factor.

Barcelona may withdraw from any agreement if Rashford sustains a long-term injury. Should this latest setback prove significant, his anticipated transfer could be placed in doubt. However, shortly following the cup fixture, the club's official website indicated that Rashford is expected to return for the second leg, scheduled for Tuesday, March 3.

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The website's announcement stated: "If all goes well, three key players should be available for the second leg: Pedri, Raphinha and Rashford. The Englishman looks the most certain, having missed the first leg purely as a precaution."

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