Manchester United have reportedly set a deadline of August 9 to finalise the departure of forward Marcus Rashford. The 28-year-old spent last season on loan with Barcelona and has made it clear he wants to leave Old Trafford.
World Cup Involvement Delays Decision
Rashford is currently in North America with the England squad preparing for their World Cup quarter-final against Norway on Saturday. Should England win, their stay in America will extend until the final weekend. The losing semi-finalists will play the third-place play-off on July 18, with the final taking place on July 19 at New Jersey Stadium.
Players returning from the tournament must have at least a three-week break before returning to club duty. Those involved until the final weekend would therefore return on August 9.
United's Deadline and Stance
According to The Sun, Manchester United are keen to resolve Rashford's future before that date, as the squad begins their pre-season training camp in Dublin on August 9. The club are determined not to accept another loan deal for the forward.
Rashford's loan to Barcelona included an option to make the move permanent for £26 million, but the Spanish club opted instead to complete a £70 million move for England teammate Anthony Gordon. The option deadline has now passed, forcing United to seek other suitors.
Rashford's Transfer Stance
Speaking ahead of England's World Cup win over Mexico, Rashford made his intentions clear: “I was very clear with everyone involved before the World Cup, I wanted [a transfer] done before. If it’s not, I wanted it to wait until after. I want to be fully present in the moment. We’re fighting for something special.”
Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with an interest, but Rashford is said to prefer joining a club that will play Champions League football next season.
Rashford's Form and Contributions
The 28-year-old earned his place back in the England squad after strong performances on loan with Barcelona. In 49 appearances across all competitions last season, he scored 14 goals and provided 14 assists.
Rashford featured in England's first four World Cup games, scoring in the win over Croatia, and was an unused substitute in the 3-2 victory over Mexico. He hopes to play in the quarter-final this weekend.
