Marcus Rashford is expected to leave Manchester United this summer and is said to be holding out for a move to Barcelona, who are set to reignite their interest
Marcus Rashford of Aston Villa warms up
Marcus Rashford could help Manchester United if they wish to pursue Napoli striker Victor Osimhen this summer
(Image: Getty Images)
Marcus Rashford could potentially provide Manchester United with a parting gift by securing a transfer to Barcelona ahead of next season.
Despite being contracted to the Reds until 2028, the forward's future at Old Trafford appears uncertain. Rashford is widely anticipated to depart this summer and is reportedly attracting considerable interest.
Several European clubs have been linked with a move for the United academy graduate, who spent the latter half of the season on loan at Aston Villa. However, it has been claimed that he has turned down all transfer offers in favour of a move to Barcelona.
The Catalan club were linked with a loan move for him in January and are expected to renew their interest in the coming weeks. According to Sport, Rashford's brother and agent, Dwaine Maynard, recently held discussions with Barcelona's sporting director Deco. Furthermore. Those in charge at Nou Camp are reportedly buoyed by Rashford's strong desire to join them, reports the Express.
Should Rashford's move to Barcelona materialise, it could significantly aid United in their pursuit of Victor Osimhen. The Napoli forward has emerged as a target for United after they missed out on Liam Delap, who has opted to sign for Chelsea.
Foot Mercato report that United would need to offload either Rashford or Bruno Fernandes to accommodate Osimhen. This is due to the club's inability to meet Osimhen's weekly wage demands, which are thought to be around £200,000.
Rashford is believed to be on a weekly wage of around £315,000 at United, so his departure would certainly free up some much-needed funds.
Osimhen would undoubtedly be an improvement on Rashford, who has had difficulty making his mark at Old Trafford for several years. Securing the Nigerian striker would provide United with a much-needed boost in a position that has been troublesome this season.
Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee only managed to net seven league goals between them, a paltry sum for forwards at a club of United's calibre. It's evident that a prolific striker is urgently needed, and Osimhen would be an ideal fit.
However, United will need to act swiftly if they want to secure him. He is reportedly keen on a move to Saudi Arabia, having agreed terms with Al-Hilal, and it remains uncertain whether the Reds could intercept the proposed deal.
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