Favourites to finish Marcus Rashford switch emerge however there is a catch for Man Utd

Bookmakers have Spanish footballing giants Barcelona favourites to sign Marcus Rashford after the England International announced he was ready to leave Manchester United

Barcelona have emerged as bookmakers favourites to sign Manchester United outcast Marcus Rashford.

But it’s understood United would have to fund most of Rashford’s £350,000-a-week wages if a deal with the Spanish giants is to be struck. Red Devils boss Ruben Amorim said the England star will miss Sunday’s visit to Premier League leaders Liverpool through illness.

Barca boss Hansi Flick has been keeping close tabs on Rashford’s situation – and would like to take him on-loan at the Nou Camp for the rest of the season. But securing a permanent deal for the 27-year-old forward would depend on what fee United demand next summer.

Rashford’s contract runs until 2028, and United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe values the player around the £50m mark. A move to Barca would appeal to Rashford, who is keen to remain in Europe to boost his chances of getting back into the England squad.

Rashford stunned United before Christmas when revealing he wanted to quit Old Trafford, to seek a new challenge elsewhere. He was subsequently axed from Amorim’s squad, before being left on the bench for Monday’s home defeat to Newcastle.

Barca are third in La Liga, three points adrift of leaders Atletico Madrid, and well placed to reach the Champions League knockout stages. William Hill spokesman Lee Phelps said: “A lot of the action in the January transfer betting markets has been on Marcus Rashford’s next club.

“The Rashford market has been by far and away our liveliest – and we make Barcelona the new 9/4 favourites to secure his signature.”

Rashford, who has turned down offers from the Saudi Pro League, is also a target of French giants Paris Saint Germain.