Marcus Rashford’s Future in Doubt as Manchester United Struggle to Sell Star Forward
Manchester United face a difficult summer as they try to offload Marcus Rashford, who is currently training alone in Marbella while his future remains uncertain.
Despite staying fit ahead of the new season, Rashford does not know where he will be playing. The forward, who fell out of favour with United boss Ruben Amorim last December, has struggled to attract serious offers after a loan spell at Aston Villa.
Rashford is due to return to United’s Carrington training ground on 7 July. But both the club and the player are keen to avoid an awkward reunion. His return would highlight not just a lack of interest from other clubs, but also United’s inability to move on high-earning players.
The 26-year-old’s dream move to Barcelona looks unlikely. His agent and brother, Dwaine Maynard, met with Barca sporting director Deco earlier this year, but the Spanish club have since shifted focus to signing Athletic Club’s Nico Williams, who plays in Rashford’s preferred position.
Even if Barcelona were interested, they would likely only take him on loan—and United would need to cover part of his £315,000-per-week wages. A similar scenario played out during his time at Aston Villa.
Newcastle have also shown interest, but only for a loan move. With a squad already boasting Anthony Gordon, Alexander Isak, and Harvey Barnes, they are unlikely to invest heavily in another forward.
United’s £40 million asking price for Rashford is proving too high. The player scored only six Premier League goals last season and made just four starts at Villa. Clubs are instead turning to younger, more affordable options like Rayan Cherki, signed by Manchester City for £34 million, and Liam Delap, signed by Chelsea for £30 million.
Rashford’s high wages are also a major hurdle. Only a few clubs in Europe—like PSG or Bayern Munich—could potentially afford him, but even they have adjusted their transfer strategies and are no longer chasing expensive, high-profile players.
Even if United lower the transfer fee, Rashford may still need to take a pay cut to join a new club. Reports suggest he is willing to reduce his salary for Barcelona, but he may need to do the same for other interested teams.
European football analyst Gabriele Marcotti summed it up: “He’s not at a level where he can earn those wages anymore. If he wants Champions League football, he has to get real about where he stands.”
Rashford may need to choose between staying in Europe at lower wages or considering moves to MLS or the Saudi Pro League, where high salaries are still available.
United’s problem goes beyond Rashford. Other high-earning players such as Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Alejandro Garnacho are also proving hard to sell. The club had hoped to raise up to £150 million from these sales to fund a squad rebuild—but unless the players lower their wage demands or expectations, United’s summer plans could be delayed.
