Manchester United are reportedly assessing five potential replacements for Marcus Rashford as Barcelona are strongly tipped to activate their £26m transfer clause in the summer
Marcus Rashford
Marcus Rashford is expected to leave Man United in the summer(Image: Icon Sport via Getty Images)
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Manchester United have reportedly shortlisted five potential successors for Marcus Rashford ahead of the forthcoming season. The England international seems sent to move on permanently from Old Trafford after moving to Barcelona on loan earlier this year, following a challenging period under former manager Ruben Amorim.
The Spanish champions have the option to make the transfer permanent for £26million in the summer, and there are strong indications that the clause will be triggered, according to recent reports. Rashford has already expressed his wish to remain in Spain after settling in swiftly.
"It's been amazing. I feel welcome, I feel at home," he stated late last year. "I've just been enjoying every step of the way. Learning the language, learning the culture - it's all enjoyable for me. It's something I've wanted to do for a long time, and this is the perfect opportunity."
However, he will need to accept a significant wage cut due to the club's alleged financial difficulties. As per an update from Spanish publication Sport, Rashford's performances in Spain have 'fully convinced' the club's board, with the forward becoming a key component of Hansi Flick's attack.
The 28-year-old has netted 10 goals and provided 13 assists in 37 matches since joining the club last summer. Preparing to part ways with their academy graduate, United are exploring alternative options, with the report highlighting several players under review.
Focusing on emerging talent, the Red Devils are understood to have RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande on their radar, alongside Jesus Rodriguez, who is having an outstanding campaign with Como 1907. Strasbourg winger Martial Godo has also been identified as a potential target.
United are additionally keeping tabs on Everton's Iliman Ndiaye, whom they believe can provide one-v-one threat alongside important Premier League experience. Nevertheless, the report suggests that Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola is the standout name under consideration.
The 23-year-old is regarded as among Europe's most exciting young prospects and has already collected multiple honours at the Parc des Princes.
Manchester United are reportedly keen on Bradley Barcola
Manchester United are reportedly keen on Bradley Barcola(Image: UEFA via Getty Images)
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Securing European football qualification will aid in attracting younger talent, and United are well-placed to achieve those positions - presently sitting third in the Premier League.
Rashford has already secured his maiden trophy as a Barca player following their 3-2 victory over Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final. He could claim further silverware, with the Blaugrana currently leading La Liga and holding a four-point advantage over Madrid.
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