The news surrounding Marcus Rashford’s potential departure from Manchester United has raised speculation about the club’s next steps. According to reports, United has compiled a five-player shortlist of potential replacements should Rashford leave the club. Rashford, 27, has been inconsistent this season and was recently substituted early during a 2-1 win over Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League. Despite a strong start to the season with three goals, Rashford’s overall form has come under scrutiny, especially since Ruben Amorim became the manager in November. Amorim has frequently rotated Rashford in and out of the starting lineup, sparking questions about his future at Old Trafford.
The Telegraph recently reported that Manchester United could be “open to selling” Rashford, with concerns about his “lifestyle choices” possibly affecting his performance. His name has been linked to high-profile moves, including to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) or to a club in Saudi Arabia, although a move within the Premier League is seen as unlikely. Rashford signed a new five-year contract worth £325,000 per week in July 2023, but his recent form has raised doubts about whether he will remain a key player for the club in the long term.
With Rashford still under contract until 2026, United could command a decent transfer fee for him, with reports suggesting that a bid of around £40 million could be enough for the club to accept an offer. Given Rashford’s high salary and fluctuating form, Manchester United has started to look for potential replacements.
The five players reportedly on United’s radar to replace Rashford are:
- Victor Osimhen (Napoli) – Osimhen, 25, is an exciting forward currently playing for Napoli, though he is on loan at Galatasaray in Turkey this season. He has been in excellent form, scoring 10 goals and providing 5 assists in 13 appearances. His contract at Napoli expires in 2025, which makes him a potential target for the club.
- Viktor Gyokeres (Coventry City) – The 26-year-old Swede has been impressive in the Championship, drawing attention from several Premier League clubs. His ability to play across the forward line makes him a versatile option for United.
- Dusan Vlahovic (Juventus) – The Serbian striker, 23, has been a consistent performer in Serie A and has been linked with a move to the Premier League. Vlahovic’s physical style and clinical finishing could be an attractive option for United.
- Evan Ferguson (Brighton) – The 19-year-old Irish forward has emerged as a promising talent in the Premier League. His potential to develop further could make him an appealing long-term solution for United.
- Kenan Yildiz (Bayern Munich) – Yildiz, a young attacking player from Bayern Munich, is another player on the radar. Though still early in his career, his talent and potential could be a reason for United to show interest in the 19-year-old.
The prospect of signing players like Osimhen or Gyokeres would likely excite United fans, given their current form and potential to make an immediate impact. However, with Rashford still contracted until 2026, any move will depend on whether United decides to act on these transfer rumors.