Liverpool have been tipped to launch a surprise raid on their greatest rivals, with former goalkeeper David James urging the club to pursue Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford this summer.
Rashford's situation at Manchester United
Rashford, 28, spent the previous season on loan at Barcelona, where he won La Liga and scored eight league goals. However, Barcelona opted not to trigger a £26m buy option, which expired on June 15, leaving his hopes of staying at Camp Nou in doubt. United are eager to offload their academy product, and Rashford remains keen on returning to Barcelona if an agreement can be reached.
David James's suggestion
Speaking to BetVictor, James, 55, said: "If I were Liverpool, I'd look to sign Marcus Rashford. I really would. Whether he plays on the left or the right isn't the main issue. Get him in first, and then you give it time to work out his best position."
He added: "I think he's an outstanding footballer. His football intelligence is off the scale, and so is his ability. We saw at Barcelona that when you get Marcus Rashford in a happy place, he's capable of playing incredible football."
James acknowledged the rivalry but argued it shouldn't prevent Liverpool from pursuing top talent. He also suggested that a manager like Andoni Iraola could create an environment where Rashford thrives.
Obstacles to a transfer
Despite James's urging, a move for Rashford faces significant hurdles. Firstly, Rashford's United contract includes a clause that allows clubs to trigger a £40m bid, but Liverpool and Manchester City are explicitly excluded from this clause.
Secondly, there is a longstanding informal agreement between United and Liverpool that has prevented direct player transfers for over 60 years. The last player to move directly from United to Liverpool was Phil Chisnall, who switched in April 1964 for £25,000, a deal agreed between Sir Matt Busby and Bill Shankly.
Given these circumstances, it appears highly unlikely that Rashford will join Liverpool in the near future.
