Former Arsenal star Lee Dixon has admitted that Marcus Rashford is "absolutely" the type of player who would suit the Gunners, but has raised doubts over whether Mikel Arteta would sign him. The Manchester United academy graduate is currently on loan at Barcelona, who have the option to sign him permanently for just £26 million this summer. However, uncertainty remains over whether the Catalan club will trigger that clause.
Rashford's Uncertain Future
Rashford has spent the season at Barcelona after being frozen out at Old Trafford, largely under former manager Ruben Amorim. Despite a change in the dugout at Manchester United, it remains to be seen whether the forward will be allowed to return to Manchester, if that is his wish. The 28-year-old has struggled to replicate the form that saw him score 30 goals in Erik ten Hag's debut season, with off-field issues and questions over his attitude leading to his departure.
Dixon's Verdict
Speaking to Boylesports, Dixon said: "Being an ex-Manchester United player, Marcus Rashford to Arsenal doesn't sit well with me because I don't really like United. But as a player, I've always been a big fan of his." He added: "Obviously, he dropped off his levels. What happened at the end of his United career was unfortunate. It didn't end particularly well. He flitted in and out of the Barcelona set-up. He's a player on his day that is absolutely, you know, he's an absolute Arsenal player in as much as he's got pace, he's direct. However, I'm not sure you can trust him, so I think Arsenal could do better."
Barcelona's Financial Constraints
Since moving to Barcelona, Rashford has showcased his quality, scoring a stunning brace as the Catalans downed Newcastle in the Champions League. Competition for places at the Nou Camp means he has not been a guaranteed starter, but he has still managed 13 goals this season. Manager Hansi Flick is keen to keep the player, but financial constraints in Spain mean that Barcelona are reportedly eyeing a second successive loan spell for Rashford. It is understood that their priority target this summer will be Atletico Madrid star Julian Alvarez.
Arsenal have invested heavily in their frontline in recent years and are likely to do so again. Dixon's comments suggest that while Rashford's playing style and profile would lend itself to a move to the Emirates, there are significant reservations about his consistency and reliability. The Gunners may look elsewhere for attacking reinforcements.
