However, a reunion for Rashford at United could be off the cards if Michael Carrick’s side act on one of two proposals that would see the England star head to AC Milan in exchange for Rafael Leao. The Portuguese winger, who has a £131m release clause, has regularly been linked with a switch to Manchester in recent months, with reports indicating the Italian giants are willing to consider selling him.
The straight swap has received the backing of United legend Jaap Stam, who suggested the arrangement would benefit all parties involved. Speaking to ComeOn, the Dutchman said: “Maybe a swap between Rafael Leao and Marcus Rashford could work. Leao is also a good player.
“He has shown his potential at Milan, of course, in what he can do. I think he is a player that should be on the list of targets for Man Utd. Having said that, you need to have a look not only at the skill of a player, but also at the mentality of players.
“You need to consider the situation where the club is, what player they are bringing in that is going to help the club going forward, so that you don’t get any irritations from players who are not being picked to start.”
Another potential solution to end the uncertainty surrounding Rashford’s future would be to pursue Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado. Mundo Deportivo has reported that the Premier League giants have thrown their hat into the ring for the Spanish international.
A move by United to secure the 22-year-old could offer the La Liga champions a more straightforward path to signing Rashford without being obliged to pay the £26m option to purchase him outright. Carrick will be eager to strengthen his midfield options following Casemiro’s exit.
Barcelona are yet to activate the clause they hold for Rashford, with discussions over the transfer fee ongoing.
Rashford has scored 14 goals and laid on 14 more in 49 appearances across all competitions this season, his impact proving so significant that team-mate Frenkie de Jong has called for him to remain in Catalonia.
Speaking to Sport, the Dutchman said: “Yes, I believe so. In the minutes he’s played, he has given us a lot: goals, assists, depth. He is a fast player, who threatens rival defences. I would be delighted if he continued with us.
“He arrived here with a lot of enthusiasm. He was very happy to be here and from the first moment he arrived you could already see that he wanted to stay. He’s tried to adapt as best he could and I’ve seen him do well.”