Marcus Rashford could be heading to Spain this summer — but not to where most fans would expect.
Manchester United are actively trying to find a new club for their forward, and Real Madrid have been reportedly approached with an offer.
The twist? Barcelona were in the picture, but United seem to have backed out — for one very clear reason.
Rashford spent the second half of last season at Aston Villa, where he showed flashes of form with four goals and six assists in 17 appearances.
But a hamstring injury cut his time short. Now back at Old Trafford, Rashford doesn’t appear to be part of Ruben Amorim’s long-term plans.
In fact, the England international isn’t expected to join United’s preseason tour to the United States. It seems the Red Devils are ready to move on — and quickly.
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Why Man Utd are keen to offer Rashford to Real Madrid over Barcelona?
According to reports from Spain (via Defensa Central), United initially considered Barcelona as a possible destination.
However, with the Catalan club chasing Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams and facing ongoing financial struggles, trust is low at Old Trafford.
That’s why United have now offered Rashford to Barcelona’s old rivals — Real Madrid. The belief is that Los Blancos are in a much stronger financial position and could afford the estimated £40 million asking price.
To put it simply: United don’t think Barca can pay up, but Madrid might have the money and the muscle.
However, there’s one snag. Madrid, led by new boss Xabi Alonso, are in the market for a different kind of striker. They’re looking for a pure number nine — someone who can hold up play, win aerial duels, and lead the line like Joselu did last season.
Rashford, who prefers running at defenders from wide areas, doesn’t quite fit that bill. As one source put it, “The profile doesn’t match.”
Still, in football, anything can happen — especially when agents get involved and transfer windows swing wide open.
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