Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford is stalling on new contract talks.

The Daily Mail says it is understood the interest from Barcelona is genuine even though the Spaniards accept it will be very hard to prise the 21-year-old striker away from Old Trafford.

The speculation plays into the hands of Rashford's camp at a time when talks have begun over a new contract. His deal runs out at the end of next season, although United have an option to extend it by 12 months.

Initial negotiations have been described as positive and the club are said to be relaxed about the situation.

However, Rashford's representatives are in no hurry to commit when they are in such a strong bargaining position and believe they could have their pick of Europe's top clubs.

They are looking for wages in excess of £200,000 a week and are also thought to be seeking assurances that Rashford will remain in a central role after ousting Romelu Lukaku as United's first-choice centre forward.