The justification for this shift in stance—less than six weeks ago, Deco explicitly named Rashford as a player Barcelona “liked”—is the preference for Liverpool forward Luis Díaz. The Colombia international is deemed to be more versatile, more experienced and more willing to sacrifice himself for the good of the team than Rashford.

Barcelona have been left scrambling after Nico Williams’ decision not to join, instead signing a new contract with Athletic Club. They are back to square one in regards to seeking a new left

Manchester United are about to embark on their first pre-season under Ruben Amorim, but five high-profile players won’t be joining up with the squad. Marcus Rashford, Antony, Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho and Tyrell Malacia have no place in Amorim’s plans and have reportedly been transfer-listed.