Barcelona came close to signing Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford four years ago, it has been revealed.

Mundo Deportivo says Rashford could have been playing for Xavi's side this week if an attempted move four years ago had gone through.

The Catalan giants made several efforts to sign him between the end of 2018 and the beginning of 2019.

Barcelona were keen to bring in someone who could succeed a 32-year-old Luis Suarez with the Uruguayan coming towards the end of his time at the club.

The report states they were searching for a versatile attacker who would not expect to start every week and one they could mould into the 'Barcelona way' of playing.

Barcelona's General Manager at the time - Pep Segura - was informed in 2018 that Rashford had doubts over whether to extend his stay with United.

Segura went on to enquire about Rashford's potential interest in a move and he was enthused by the response from the Englishman's agents who hinted they were keen to hear Barcelona's proposal.

Conversations took place, with up to three meetings held at the beginning of 2019 between the club and Rashford's brothers and agent.

Rashford was seen by Barcelona as an attractive option in sporting and economic terms and there was said to be genuine interest there.

However, after the forward's agents highlighted to Barcelona they would be keen on the move, Rashford got cold feet and started to question whether a transfer to Barcelona was the right decision.

He reportedly had doubts about whether - at the age of 21 - moving to to the Camp Nou and adapting to a different style of football and culture would be the best idea for his development.

In the end, Rashford decided he would be better served remaining at Old Trafford and this was helped by then-United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer who enjoyed a positive relationship with the forward.