Manchester United's attempt to offload in January could be scuppered by Fati's apparent refusal to leave . Rashford has not played a minute for the Red Devils for the win at Manchester City last month.

Less than 48 hours after his omission, the forward gave an exclusive interview to Henry Winter where he said the time was right for him to leave his boyhood club.

But despite being linked with a host of European sides, the 27-year-old is still in Manchester and was again forced to watch from afar as .

According to Spanish media outlet Sport, Barcelona are now a leading contender to sign the former England star. However, given their desire to balance the books financially, they need to make a player sale to pave the way for Rashford.

But Ansu Fati is reportedly refusing to negotiate an exit away from the Catalan club. The 22-year-old has fallen out of favour with Hansi Flick, playing just four times in this season.

The Spanish international is currently contracted until 2027, and wants to stay and fight for his place under Flick. But his stance is said to have 'complicated' the club's transfer plans with less than a fortnight left of the January transfer window.

United are also looking to free up space in their squad as they look to comply with FFP regulations. Rashford has also been heavily linked with , but the French champions favour a loan move and not a permanent bid.

AC Milan's pursuit has also cooled amid ongoing talks with over signing . If they sign the England right-back, post-Brexit rules means the Serie A side will have reached their limitation of UK players.

If a bid from Barcelona does not materialise, then Borussia Dortmund are another club said to be in the race for Rashford. With Nuri Sahin facing a crunch week in his tenure, to take over if he departs, and is said to be keen to target his former player at Old Trafford.

Rashford is not the only player linked with a move from Man Utd this month. also appears on the brink of a move to Napoli, while is set to join Real Betis on loan.

Amorim has also reportedly sanctioned the departure of left-back Tyrell Malacia. The 25-year-old only returned to action in November after an 18-month injury lay-off.