Manchester United Eye Five Potential Replacements for Marcus Rashford
Manchester United have reportedly identified a shortlist of five players who could replace Marcus Rashford if the England international departs the club.
Rashford’s Uncertain Future
Rashford, now 27, started in United’s narrow 2-1 Europa League win against Viktoria Plzen but was substituted after 56 minutes. His replacement, Rasmus Højlund, scored twice to secure victory for Ruben Amorim’s side in Czechia.
Since Amorim’s arrival in November, Rashford’s role in the starting XI has been inconsistent. Despite scoring three goals—two against Everton and one against Ipswich—his performances have failed to solidify his position in the team.
Reports from The Telegraph earlier this week suggested that United might be open to selling Rashford due to concerns over his “lifestyle choices.” He has been linked with moves to PSG or Saudi Arabia, with a transfer to another Premier League side deemed unlikely.
Although Rashford signed a lucrative five-year contract worth £325,000 per week in July 2023, his form has been patchy, prompting speculation about his future. With three years left on his deal, United could still command a substantial fee, with reports indicating that £40 million might be enough to secure his transfer.
Five-Man Shortlist
United are said to have compiled a shortlist of potential replacements, including Victor Osimhen, Viktor Gyökeres, Dušan Vlahović, Evan Ferguson, and Kenan Yildiz.
Victor Osimhen
The 25-year-old Nigerian forward, currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, has been in scintillating form, scoring 10 goals and providing 5 assists in just 13 appearances this season. With his contract expiring in June 2025, Osimhen represents an exciting option for United fans.
Viktor Gyökeres
The 26-year-old Swede is enjoying a stellar season, netting 25 goals in 23 appearances for Sporting Lisbon, Amorim’s former club. Gyökeres has a €100 million (£83 million) release clause, though Sporting are reportedly open to negotiating a reduced fee of €70 million (£58 million) plus bonuses next summer.
Dušan Vlahović
A towering presence, Vlahović’s physicality makes him well-suited to Premier League football. The 24-year-old Serbian striker scored in Juventus’ recent 2-0 victory over Manchester City and remains a key figure for the Italian club. However, his contract runs until June 2026, meaning United would likely need to pay a hefty fee to secure his services.
Evan Ferguson
At just 20 years old, Ferguson is still a developing talent. Although he has shown promise in previous seasons, the Brighton forward has struggled this term, scoring only once in 10 league appearances.
Kenan Yildiz
The youngest option on the list, 19-year-old Yildiz is currently at Juventus. While highly rated, he is seen more as a player for the future than an immediate replacement for Rashford.
What’s Next for United?
Rashford’s future at Old Trafford remains uncertain, but United’s proactive approach to identifying replacements signals a willingness to adapt. The January transfer window could be a pivotal moment for the club as they navigate their attacking options and prepare for the challenges ahead.
With a mix of proven performers like Osimhen and Gyökeres and younger prospects like Ferguson and Yildiz, United’s shortlist offers a range of possibilities to bolster their attack should Rashford move on.
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