Barcelona had three reasons for wanting to sign Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford during the summer transfer window, according to reports.
The England international was linked with a move to the Nou Camp before he committed his future to the Red Devils with a new contract back in July.
And UniBet claim Barcelona had three reasons for wanting the Manchester United star to team up with the likes of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.
The first, was that they thought he was talented.
Rashford is a divisive figure among United fans.
He’s a local lad, Mancunian at heart, meaning he will always be afforded patience and perseverance for the most part.
But some have become infuriated by the United forward’s failure to convert the bulk of the chances that are put to him.
The 21-year-old started the season off well with a brace against Chelsea on the opening day of the Premier League season.
But the United star has failed to score in the time since, being stifled by the likes of Wolves, Crystal Palace and Southampton.
Barcelona also admired Rashford because of his age.
The Catalan giants’ frontline is in its twilight years and there’s a sense the La Liga titans must build for the future.
Messi and Suarez are 31 and 32 respectively, while newcomer Antoine Griezmann turns 29 in March.
A third reason Barcelona wanted Rashford was because they felt the United ace was capable of playing in a front three.
And the report also claims the United star’s family had a secret meeting with Barcelona to learn more about their interest.
Ultimately, though, the United star decided staying at Old Trafford was right for him.
And, speaking upon signing a new contract on July 1, he expressed a determination to propel the Red Devils back to the top.
“Manchester United has been everything in my life since I arrived at the age of seven,” he said.
“This club has shaped me both as a player and as a person, so it’s such a privilege every time I get the opportunity to wear the shirt.
“I want to thank Ole and his staff for everything they have done for me.
“They are the perfect group of coaches to learn from as I continue my development and look to push on to the next level.
“I will be giving everything I have to help get this club back to where it belongs and deliver the success that our fans deserve.”