The spectre of Roony Bardghji, the teenage sensation who delivered Manchester United's Champions League death blow, now looms over Old Trafford in a dramatic transfer twist that could reshape Erik ten Hag's attacking options.
The 18-year-old Swedish prodigy, whose stunning 87th-minute winner sent United crashing out of Europe in December, has emerged as a serious target for the Red Devils as speculation intensifies around Marcus Rashford's future.
According to emerging reports, United's hierarchy are actively monitoring Bardghji's situation at FC Copenhagen, viewing him as both a promising long-term investment and a potential replacement should Rashford depart this summer.
The Rashford Conundrum
Rashford's turbulent season has cast doubt over his United future, with PSG reportedly monitoring the England international as a potential replacement for the departing Kylian Mbappé. The 26-year-old's dramatic dip in form – scoring just eight goals this campaign after netting 30 last season – has forced club officials to consider previously unthinkable scenarios.
Bardghji represents a fundamentally different profile to Rashford, operating primarily from the right wing rather than the left. His acquisition would signal a strategic shift rather than a direct like-for-like replacement.
The Bardghji Phenomenon
Since his coming-of-age moment against United, Bardghji has continued his meteoric rise in Denmark. The Ivory Coast-born winger has notched six goals in 23 appearances this season, building on his breakthrough campaign where he scored seven times in the Danish Superliga.
His performances have attracted attention from across Europe, with United now joining Chelsea and Newcastle in the race for his signature. Copenhagen values their prized asset at approximately £17 million – a figure that represents potentially spectacular value for one of Europe's most exciting young talents.
Strategic Implications
This potential move reflects United's evolving transfer strategy under INEOS influence. The pursuit of young, high-potential players like Bardghji aligns with a data-driven approach targeting value in emerging markets rather than established superstars.
Whether Bardghji becomes Rashford's replacement or his teammate, his potential arrival signals a new direction for United's recruitment – one that prioritises youthful exuberance and future resale value over immediate star power.
The coming months will determine whether the teenager who broke United hearts in December could become the newest hero to don the famous red shirt.
