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Man Utd transfer news: Boost in striker pursuit as embarrassing Marcus Rashford error emerges

The Red Devils are set to be busy in the summer transfer window as they look to improve their squad and the club will listen to offers for several players, including Marcus Rashford

15:12, 17 May 2025Updated 15:13, 17 May 2025

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 16: Manchester United Head Coach / Manager Ruben Amorim applauds the fans at the end of the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Manchester United FC at Stamford Bridge on May 16, 2025 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)

Ruben Amorim has a huge few days ahead of the Europa League final(Image: Ash Donelon, Manchester United via Getty Images)

As their season nears its end, Manchester United can start to turn their attention to the summer transfer window, but not before their season-defining Europa League final against Tottenham on Wednesday.

The Red Devils will be hoping to put their disappointing season behind them by clinching the silverware that would secure them a spot in the Champions League - and potentially attract more high-profile signings.

United's recruitment plans for a new midfielder and forward next term will be constrained by the club's challenging financial situation and PSR regulations. But club officials are already busy evaluating targets ahead of what is set to be a busy transfer window, which kicks off next month.

Here, the Daily Star Sport looks at the latest Man Utd transfer news.

Jonathan David alert

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 23: Jonathan David of Canada celebrates after scoring the team's second goal during the CONCACAF Nations League third-place match between United States and Canada at SoFi Stadium on March 23, 2025 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Eliecer Aizprua Banfield/Jam Media/Getty Images)

Jonathan David is set to be a free agent(Image: Jam Media, Getty Images)

United are keen to bolster their forward line this summer, having grown frustrated with the lack of goals from Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund. And they may have found a solution to their problem.

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The Red Devils have had their eye on Lille striker Jonathan David for some time, and the Canada international will be available on a free transfer this summer as his contract is due to expire in June.

Given that United won't have a large budget to work with this summer, bargains like this could be key to a successful transfer window.

David made clear his desire to leave Lille this summer after scoring 25 goals this season. "I wanted to tell you myself that after so many years at the club, it's time for me to say goodbye," he announced in an Instagram video.

"I've spent five wonderful seasons here, I know it hasn't always been easy, but I hope that with my goals and celebrations, I've managed to bring you some joy, especially with the French championship title and the Champions Trophy."

Inter interest in Zirkzee

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - APRIL 13: Joshua Zirkzee of Manchester United reacts during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Manchester United FC at St James' Park on April 13, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Zirkzee could leave Man Utd after just one season(Image: Stu Forster, Getty Images)

The potential arrival of David, or another striker, could result in Zirkzee's departure from United, after he came under scrutiny before his season was ended by injury just as he was hitting form.

Zirkzee, who made the switch from Bologna to Old Trafford for a fee in the region of £35 million last summer, has found it tough going as the main man up front, netting just three times in 32 Premier League games.

Speculation is mounting that Zirkzee could be allowed to depart, with Inter Milan poised to offer him a way out of Manchester, as reported by Italian news source Corriere dello Sport. Inter are said to be contemplating a loan move for Zirkzee for the 2025-26 season, with a view to a permanent transfer if he impresses during his time in Italy.

Zirkzee could fare better within Simone Inzaghi's tactical setup, although he also employs a 3-4-3 formation, similar to Ruben Amorim’s strategy.

United could face £60m loss on Rashford

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - APRIL 22: Marcus Rashford of Aston Villa looks on during the Premier League match between Manchester City FC and Aston Villa FC at Etihad Stadium on April 22, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Copa/Getty Images)

Marcus Rashford's future is up in the air(Image: Molly Darlington/Copa, Getty Images)

Marcus Rashford's future at United is currently one of the biggest uncertainties heading into the summer. Rashford fell out with Amorim over his work ethic and expressed his desire to leave in a shocking interview, before securing a short-term loan to Aston Villa.

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The England international has impressed at Villa Park under boss Unai Emery, scoring four goals and providing five assists, but a season-ending injury has seen him return to United for treatment.

United are keen to get as much as they can for Rashford, who earns around £325,000 per week. Villa's agreement with United includes a £40m option to buy - a deal that Rashford believes the club will accept.

This comes despite United officials placing a £100m price tag on the forward last summer, which led to PSG withdrawing their interest. The club now appears ready to settle for a significantly lower fee.

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