Arsenal could make a late loan move for Manchester United winger Marcus Rashford after Gabriel Martinelli's exit is completed. The Gunners are said to be considering a loan offer for the 28-year-old England international.
Rashford's situation at Manchester United
Rashford was expected to join Barcelona following a successful loan spell, but the Catalan side decided against triggering the £26million clause included in their initial agreement with United. The 28-year-old was still widely expected to leave, but ultimately has returned to the fold at Old Trafford with no move in the offing.
United boss Michael Carrick brought Rashford off the bench against Hull City, and could use him from the start against Ipswich Town. With days remaining of the transfer window, the forward has been linked with a move again, with Arsenal and Chelsea reportedly making efforts to land him in the final throws of the summer window.
Arsenal's attacking targets
Arsenal's primary target is Atletico Madrid star Julian Alvarez. That move currently looks difficult, but Mikel Arteta appears unfazed over the prospect of missing out. However, with Martinelli set to join Al Hilal in a £50million move, there is reported to be some 'internal surprise' that a replacement hasn't been secured. The Independent reports that this could trigger Arsenal to submit a late loan offer for Rashford.
The 28-year-old still has two years left on his contract with United and appears to have been warmly welcomed by Carrick. The reintegration of Rashford would seem to make any attempt to sign the player more challenging than it was earlier in the summer.
Alvarez deal complications
Arsenal may be exploring other options with a deal for Alvarez appearing challenging to complete. When questioned about discussions with Alvarez, Mikel Arteta responded: "Don't go there."
Doubt persists over whether the Gunners might strengthen their attacking options. It is understood Arsenal remain extremely interested in signing Alvarez, but will only proceed if they receive complete commitment from the player.
Alvarez, who will be absent for Atletico this weekend after missing training due to illness, has been eager to join Barcelona this summer. His current club declined to enter discussions with the Catalan side following their behaviour, though.
"The members of Atletico Madrid's Board of Directors have unanimously expressed their full support for the club's decision not to negotiate the transfer of Julian Alvarez to FC Barcelona," Atletico said in a statement.
"The members of the Board of Directors are aware that: Atletico Madrid is open to negotiations that are part of the transfer market, but always in an ethical and professional manner and with respect between clubs.
"We fully support the position previously communicated by the club that FC Barcelona have not met these requirements and, as a result, there have been no negotiations, nor will there be any negotiations with them regarding the transfer of Julián Alvarez."
