Marcus Rashford's future at Manchester United has taken a dramatic twist after a reported call from Liverpool forced the club to reconsider their plans. The England international, currently on loan at Barcelona, has been linked with a permanent move away from Old Trafford, but the Premier League rivals' interest has complicated matters.
Bayern Munich Enter the Race
Bayern Munich are reportedly eyeing a summer move for Rashford and are said to have no reservations about meeting Manchester United's £34.5million asking price. According to The Sun, Vincent Kompany's side are prepared to secure the England international's signature, though his reported £325,000-per-week wages remain a significant stumbling block. Rashford spent last season on loan at La Liga outfit Barcelona, playing a key role in their Spanish title triumph, and reportedly accepted a reduced wage to join Hansi Flick's squad.
Rashford's Barcelona Dream Fades
The 28-year-old contributed 14 goals and 14 assists across all competitions for Barca, yet the Catalan club appear reluctant to make the arrangement permanent. Rashford has spoken openly about a move to Barcelona being his 'dream' this summer, however the La Liga giants are unwilling to meet the £26m fee required to secure a permanent transfer. Flick's side have already invested heavily, splashing out a reported £60million on Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon. Barcelona are now understood to be shifting their focus towards signing a striker, leaving Rashford's future hanging in the balance, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Premier League Interest
A number of Premier League clubs have also been linked with an interest in Rashford, with Bayern becoming the latest high-profile side to enter the running. The report suggests Bayern would have little difficulty matching United's asking price for Rashford, though given he may not command a regular starting berth, they would require him to take a pay cut. Bayern are still licking their wounds following Barcelona's move to sign Gordon, having believed they were front runners to land the England international from Newcastle.
Alternative Targets
The German giants are keen to strengthen their options on the left flank and had been linked with a bold move for Liverpool youngster Rio Ngumoha. However, United's Premier League rivals are reluctant to part with the emerging talent, leaving Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli as another potential target for Kompany's side. Once again, Arsenal are open to selling the Brazilian, though he would command a substantial transfer fee, with the report suggesting Rashford would represent the more affordable option.
It indicates the England international must accept a reduction in his earnings, with no club across Europe prepared to match his current salary. That said, Bayern's position could shift should they offload Michael Olise to Real Madrid, with speculation continuing to mount over a potential move for the French international to the Bernabeu.
