Manchester United look to already have plans in place for the summer transfer window after opting out of conducting business last month
Kobbie Mainoo and Marcus Rashford
Kobbie Mainoo and Marcus Rashford's Manchester United futures have both been under the microscope(Image: Getty Images)
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There's a reinvigorated spirit at Manchester United thanks to the arrival of Michael Carrick. The former Red Devils midfielder only returned to Old Trafford a month ago following Ruben Amorim's sacking but has instilled confidence in a squad that sorely lacked it.
United's chances of qualifying for Champions League football have drastically increased under the interim head coach following his bright start to life at the helm. While there are 12 games still to play for United, attention towards the summer continues to grow each day.
Kobbie Mainoo transfer plan sparked surprise
The 20-year-old's turnaround has been stark. Before Carrick's arrival, Mainoo not only didn't start a single Premier League game under Amorim, but he was reportedly set to go out on loan for the rest of the season.
The midfielder was linked with a move to Napoli, with Antonio Conte said to be interested in taking the England star to Italy where he would have reunited with former United team-mate Scott McTominay.
Several Premier League teams including Tottenham, Aston Villa and Everton all reportedly had interest in signing Mainoo before that opportunity was slammed shut upon his return to the starting line-up. According to The Telegraph, "genuine disbelief" existed in Naples due to United's apparent willingness to part ways with Mainoo.
Those feelings were said to be shared by "many Premier League clubs" before Mainoo was told, due to Carrick's appointment, that he would return to the first team in a more prominent role.
Marcus Rashford return verdict
The 28-year-old is currently enjoying life at Barcelona and previously admitted that he wishes to remain in Catalonia past the summer. The La Liga giants have the option to buy Rashford - who has scored and assisted 23 goals this season - for £26million, which they're believed to be keen on activating.
Marcus Rashford during the Copa Del Rey Quarter Final match between Albacete Balompie and FC Barcelona.
Marcus Rashford wishes to remain at Barcelona beyond this season(Image: Angel Martinez, Getty Images)
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It seems all parties agree that a fresh start is the best outcome for the England winger. According to the Sun, United are sticking to their guns and planning for life without Rashford.
With United chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox leading the charge to appoint the club's next permanent boss, nothing yet has changed regarding Rashford's future, despite claims Carrick would be keen on a reunion.
It's been over a year since he last played for the club and has no number at United since Matheus Cunha took his No. 10 upon his summer arrival. United will likely shop in the market this summer for a forward to replace both Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho.
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