Paper Round: Rashford’s Barcelona Move in Doubt, Guehi Eyes Real Madrid, Potter Under Pressure, Arsenal Chase Brazilian StarRashford’s Barcelona Future in Jeopardy
SME News UK. Marcus Rashford’s hopes of a permanent move to Barcelona have been dealt a blow after La Liga slashed the club’s spending limit by nearly £100 million.The Manchester United forward, currently on loan at the Camp Nou, has impressed with two goals in Barca’s Champions League victory over Newcastle at St James’ Park. However, despite his strong start in Spain, Barcelona’s ability to secure his long-term services is under threat.La Liga confirmed on Friday that the Catalan giants’ salary cap for the 2025/26 season has been reduced from €463 million to €351 million – a drop of €112m (£96m). This cap covers salaries, transfer fees, and other squad costs. Should clubs exceed the limit, new signings will not be registered, regardless of their profile.Guehi Turns Down Liverpool for Real MadridMarc Guehi looks set to reject Liverpool and pursue a move to Real Madrid.According to The Mirror, the Crystal Palace and England defender has informed his advisors that his priority is a switch to the Bernabéu after his £35 million move to Anfield collapsed late in the summer window. Palace pulled the plug after failing to find a replacement, leaving Guehi to run down his contract.The 25-year-old could now leave as a free agent, with Madrid also monitoring Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté, who is allowing his contract to expire. Guehi’s decision represents a significant setback for Arne Slot’s Premier League champions.Potter on the Brink at West HamGraham Potter’s tenure at West Ham United hangs by a thread after a 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace left the Hammers languishing in 18th place.Supporters voiced their frustration with chants of “you’re getting sacked in the morning”, and while Potter insists he retains the board’s backing, club officials are already exploring alternatives.The Daily Mail reports that former West Ham boss Slaven Bilic and ex-Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo are among the candidates being considered should results not improve swiftly.Arsenal Join Race for BenedettiArsenal are set to battle Barcelona and Napoli for Palmeiras’ highly rated left-back Luiz Benedetti.The 19-year-old Brazilian has attracted widespread attention in South America, with Mundo Deportivo reporting that the Gunners are ready to rival Barcelona in pursuit of his signature ahead of the 2026 winter transfer window.Despite already boasting strong depth at left-back – including Riccardo Calafiori, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and £45 million signing Piero Hincapié – Mikel Arteta is believed to see Benedetti as a long-term investment.
