Manchester United have already completed three summer signings ahead of the new Premier League season, but further midfield additions are being considered, with developments regarding Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers potentially prompting a move. Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford's £40 million exit clause has expired, leaving his future uncertain.
Morgan Rogers' Future Under Scrutiny
Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers, 23, has been the subject of much transfer speculation this summer. With England now eliminated from the World Cup, interest is expected to intensify. Arsenal have been linked, but Villa's reported £130 million asking price has deterred suitors so far.
According to Football Insider, Villa are staying extremely coy about whether Rogers has a release clause in his current contract. Both new United signing Youri Tielemans and Lucas Digne, who is bound for Paris Saint-Germain, had their respective clauses activated this summer, but Villa will not confirm if Rogers has a similar provision. If he does have a clause, it would be difficult for Villa to prevent his departure, potentially opening the door for United and other clubs.
Marcus Rashford's £40m Clause Expires
Marcus Rashford, 28, spent last season on loan at Barcelona, but the Catalan club opted not to activate the £26 million purchase option in that agreement. Instead, Barcelona signed Anthony Gordon for £70 million in May, leaving Rashford in limbo.
Rashford's Manchester United contract contained an exit clause that could have been triggered for £40 million, with only Manchester City and Liverpool unable to activate it. However, The Athletic reports that this clause expired on July 15, meaning any transfer now must be negotiated directly.
United's Summer Business So Far
Under manager Michael Carrick, United have already bolstered their squad. Goalkeeper Karl Darlow joined on a free transfer following his exit from Leeds United. Midfielders Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans have arrived from Chelsea and Aston Villa, respectively. These additions come after a dire start to last season under Ruben Amorim, which was turned around by Carrick, securing Champions League football for the upcoming campaign.
Reports suggest United are still in the market for at least one more midfielder, and the situation surrounding Rogers could prompt them to act. With Tielemans having a clause activated this summer, Villa's reluctance to confirm or deny Rogers' clause adds intrigue to the transfer window.
