Rashford targets Real Madrid, with a permanent transfer in sight if he scores! Lewandowski reportedly wants a free transfer to Manchester United

Rashford scored twice again in Barcelona’s Champions League match and has now set his sights on his first Spanish El Clásico. The 27-year-old English winger said playing in such games is a key reason he joined Barça.

After scoring in the 6-1 Champions League victory over Olympiacos, Rashford has scored 5 goals and assisted 4 times in 12 games for Barcelona, also winning 2 penalties. In the Champions League, Rashford ranks alongside Mbappé and Anthony Gordon as one of the top contributors. He described this match as his best performance since joining Barça: "This might be my finest display at Barcelona. I’m ready to give my best for the team. I prefer playing on the wing, but I don’t mind. I plan to do whatever it takes and can play any position to help the squad."

This weekend, Barcelona will face Real Madrid away in a high-profile clash. It’s not Rashford’s first time against Madrid; he played against them in the European Super Cup while at Manchester United. However, this will be his first El Clásico representing Barcelona.

If Barcelona can defeat Real Madrid on their turf, they will reclaim the top spot in La Liga from their rivals. "The match against Real Madrid is very important and will be thrilling. It’s one of the reasons I came here, and I’m looking forward to it. Hopefully, we will win," Rashford said. "Barcelona is an excellent team that lets you enjoy football."

When asked about playing alongside Barcelona’s young stars Anssumane Fati and Pedri, Rashford smiled and said, "Both of them have fantastic ball control, but don’t forget, other teams know that too! So, for me, seizing the moment is crucial. I’m learning, working hard to improve my teamwork, and trying to assist or score from the right positions."

Barcelona borrowed Rashford from Manchester United on a free loan deal, only covering his wages. After this season, they have an option to buy him permanently for €30 million. Reportedly, Barcelona is very pleased with Rashford’s performance and price, and if he scores in the Barça vs. Madrid game, his permanent transfer will be guaranteed.

English legend Michael Owen expressed confidence: "I believe Rashford absolutely has the ability to secure a permanent transfer. He’s almost been reborn now. Some might say he’s been lucky because he struggled for several seasons. So this is a huge opportunity, and he must seize it with both hands. But I think he’s very capable, and as long as his mindset is right, I believe he will make the move."

Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs pointed out the difference in Rashford’s role at Barça compared to United, losing his "academy prince" status and forcing him to work harder. "At United, Rashford strolled around like he owned the place. At Barça, he runs as if his lease is up. That’s the effect of comfort zones. United used to be a holiday resort for many talented players, and I’m glad that culture is fading."

Rashford dreams of a permanent move to Barcelona, but interestingly, rumors this week suggest veteran Lewandowski might join Manchester United. The 37-year-old Polish striker’s contract with Barça is about to expire. Although the club has a one-year extension option, reports say both sides may choose to end their cooperation.

Lewandowski has scored 4 goals in 9 appearances this season, but Barcelona has concerns about his fitness and aims to complete a generational change. Manchester United is reportedly one of the possible destinations for Lewandowski. Back in Ferguson’s era, Lewandowski agreed to join United, but Dortmund refused to sell, so the Polish striker stayed and later moved to Barcelona on a free transfer two years afterward.

"I decided to join Manchester United, I agreed to it, I wanted to go and see Ferguson," Lewandowski told BBC. "But Dortmund wouldn’t sell because they wanted more money. So I waited one or two years, but at that time I had indeed promised United."

Although Manchester United signed 22-year-old Sheshko for €85 million, the English Daily Star reported that the club views Lewandowski’s experience as valuable for rotation up front, potentially replacing the departing Zirkzee. The transfer department compared him to past players like Larsson and Ibrahimović, believing Lewandowski can bring experience and mentor younger teammates. Of course, this rumor is likely hype and a tactic to raise his price.