Manchester United are on the hunt for a new left winger, but it seems Marcus Rashford's return to Old Trafford isn't part of the plan. The Red Devils are hoping Barcelona will trigger the £26 million buy option on the Englishman, who has been directly involved in 28 goals during his loan spell at Camp Nou. However, with Barcelona's well-documented financial struggles, nothing is certain. The debt-laden Catalan giants are pushing for a lower fee and are already scouting cheaper alternatives.
Enter Abde Ezzalzouli, the Real Betis winger who has caught the eye of both Barcelona and Manchester United. According to journalist Ben Jacobs, speaking to The United Stand, the Red Devils have been closely monitoring the 24-year-old Moroccan. And it's easy to see why. Since leaving Barcelona for Betis two years ago, Abde has taken his game to new heights, becoming a nightmare for defenders with his relentless dribbling and electric pace. His decision-making has sharpened too, as evidenced by his impressive tally of 14 goals and 13 assists this season.
Interestingly, Abde has formed a formidable attacking partnership with former United right-winger Antony in Seville, helping Manuel Pellegrini's side secure a remarkable Champions League qualification. For United, signing Abde could bring much-needed spark and width to the frontline, something Michael Carrick's attack could certainly use. The Moroccan is under contract until 2029, with a €60 million release clause, but there's a twist: Barcelona reportedly hold a percentage of his economic rights. That means any sale could give the Catalan club a financial boost—perhaps enough to help them make Rashford's move permanent.
Speaking of Rashford, former Barcelona boss and current Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman has urged the Spanish giants not to let the opportunity slip. "If Barcelona let him return to Manchester United after this loan spell, I think they'll regret it hugely," Koeman said. "Because €30 million in today's market for a player with these qualities is a bargain."