Manchester United are reportedly considering utilising Marcus Rashford as a ‘bargaining chip’ in their bid for Manu Kone.
The news comes courtesy of GOAL, which suggests INEOS are looking for creative ways to get their hands on a third midfielder.
United unlikely to use Rashford in part-exchange offer
However, fans can perhaps take the report with a pinch of salt.
It’s been claimed for some time now that United do have the funds available for all three midfield additions irrespective of outgoings, so there wouldn’t be any pressing need to include Rashford in their proposal.
In addition, United are said to want depth on the left wing ahead of a campaign that’ll have Champions League football back on the schedule.
Marcus Rashford in the league phase 😮💨#UCL pic.twitter.com/QshhNx8Fro
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 23, 2026
Offloading the Carrington graduate without a direct replacement being brought in would make little sense as we approach the final weeks before kicking off 2026/2027.
Rashford: The state of play
Rashford is undoubtedly one member of the squad who faces a hugely uncertain future, though.
His situation automatically became more complicated after Barcelona let his £26 million buy option expire following his loan spell.
Appearances Goals Assists Minutes played
49 14 14 2,622
Rashford’s record in all competitions for Barcelona
They subsequently opted to sign wingers Anthony Gordon for £70m and Karim Adeyemi for £25m, leaving no room for Rashford to return to the Camp Nou and stake his claim.
A fortnight ago, the 28-year-old’s £40m release clause, which was valid for any side except rivals Liverpool and Manchester City, also expired, meaning any new transfer fee would have to be negotiated with United chiefs.
Rashford is currently on his holidays after reaching the World Cup semi-finals with England. When he’s done, he will report back to his boyhood club to begin his pre-season preparations, with the expectation being that he is reintegrated into the first-team squad.
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MADRID, SPAIN - MARCH 22: Aurelien Tchouameni of Real Madrid looks on prior to the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Madrid CF and Atletico de Madrid at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on March 22, 2026 in Madrid, Spain.
TURIN, ITALY - APRIL 06: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Genoa CFC at Allianz Stadium on April 06, 2026 in Turin, Italy.
Aurelien Tchouameni hydrating
Isabel, 25, is a football writer who has previously gained experience in the industry as the editor of Stretty News, along with work on Caught Offside, Last Word on Football and Give Me Sport. She is now the editor of UtdReport.
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