David James has urged Liverpool to launch an audacious move for Manchester United outcast Marcus Rashford. The England World Cup star spent last season on loan at Barcelona and hoped to earn a permanent move to the Nou Camp.
Rashford's Barcelona stint
Rashford helped Barcelona retain their La Liga title and go deep in Europe, scoring 14 goals and providing ten assists in all competitions. Barcelona boss Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco regularly praised Rashford's contributions, suggesting they were keen to keep hold of the forward.
But Barcelona signed Rashford's England teammate Anthony Gordon in a £70m deal from Newcastle United last month. The Spanish giants then decided against activating a £26m clause to keep Rashford, meaning the 28-year-old is set to return to Old Trafford.
Future uncertain
Neither Rashford nor Manchester United appear particularly keen to continue their relationship, however, meaning another summer transfer or loan move remains likely. Rashford has been linked with Bayern Munich since his Barcelona move fell through, while a number of Premier League clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham – are said to be keeping an eye on developments.
James's advice
Ex-England goalkeeper James has advised Liverpool to enter the race to sign Rashford, insisting he would 'thrive' under new Anfield boss Andoni Iraola. Former Bournemouth boss Iraola agreed to take over at Liverpool last month after Arne Slot was sacked just 12 months after winning the Premier League title.
'If I were Liverpool, I'd look to sign Marcus Rashford. I really would,' James told BetVictor. 'Whether he plays on the left or the right isn't the main issue. Get him in first, and then you give it time to work out his best position.'
'I think he's an outstanding footballer. His football intelligence is off the scale, and so is his ability. We saw at Barcelona that when you get Marcus Rashford in a happy place, he's capable of playing incredible football.'
'I can't imagine Liverpool will actually sign him, but football rivalries shouldn't stop clubs from pursuing the best players. Someone like Andoni Iraola is good enough to create an environment where Rashford could thrive.'
Release clause details
As Rashford weighs up his next move, The Athletic claim he is available for £40m due to a clause in his contract, although it does not apply to local rivals Liverpool or Manchester City.
Arsenal interest
New Premier League champions Arsenal have identified Rashford as a possible target as they look to bolster Mikel Arteta's title-winning squad. Michael Owen told Metro: 'Arsenal are still sort of searching for centre forward so it gives you another option up there.'
'Obviously on the left-hand side, Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli are very good players, but they aren't quite on Rashford's level when he's fit and firing.'
'I can't imagine Arsenal are going to be signing too many players. I expect them just to be quite opportunistic; maybe if a great centre forward comes along or an opportunity to get somebody, then they will act.'
'But I don't think it's the worst shout to be honest. I think Rashford's first priority will be to stay at Barcelona and I think his team will be working around the clock to try to sort that one out. But if that doesn't work, then of course other teams come into the fray and Arsenal could be a great option.'
