Liverpool and Barcelona have reportedly made contact with the entourage of disgruntled Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford over a summer move.
According to the Manchester Evening News, Barcelona and Liverpool have established contact with Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford to explore the possibility of a transfer in the summer window.
Rashford has had a difficult 2021/22 campaign on and off the pitch due to injuries and a severe lack of form. It has led to a serious drop in his game-time, especially since Ralf Rangnick took over the reins of the club. The 24-year-old had an incident with fans outside Old Trafford after Manchester United’s defeat to Atletico Madrid, which has added to the pressure he is under.
Due to his unfavourable situation, Rashford is considering his future at Manchester United. It has alerted a host of clubs across England and Europe, with Arsenal and Real Madrid taking note, along with Barcelona. Now, it seems like Liverpool also have emerged as shock contenders for the signing of the England international.
Barcelona are in the market for a new striker and have been chasing Borussia Dortmund superstar Erling Haaland. But they have dropped out of the race, with Manchester City emerging as the favourites to land him. As a result, Barcelona are now looking for alternatives to the Norwegian international, with Manchester United star Rashford emerging as one.
Barcelona have already gotten in touch with the representatives of Rashford to assess the possibility of a transfer. Now, though, they will likely have to face competition from a surprise suitor in the form of Manchester United’s bitterest rivals, Liverpool.
Liverpool could be looking to revamp their frontline with an eye on the long-term future, as seen by the growing role of Diogo Jota and the January signing of Luis Diaz. With Mohamed Salah’s contract situation yet to be resolved, the Reds are facing the risk of losing him. Even if that matter is resolved, both Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino have deals expiring in 2023.
Furthermore, as suggested by manager Jurgen Klopp himself, Divock Origi and Takumi Minamino could leave Liverpool. It will leave the door open for a new forward to come in. And it seems like the Merseysiders have their interest piqued by Rashford’s situation at Manchester United. The report states that Liverpool have made his camp known that they are his admirers and are keeping tabs on the development.
Despite their reported interest, it is extremely unlikely that Manchester United would allow one of their brightest academy products to join their direct rivals. Firstly, it is hard to imagine that the Red Devils would entertain the possibility of selling Rashford. And even if it comes to that, allowing him to sign for Liverpool will not be an option on the table for United.
As things stand, Rashford is considering his future at Old Trafford and could seriously contemplate leaving Manchester United if his situation does not improve.