Manchester United may have to keep paying a large portion of Marcus Rashford’s wages if they are to offload him in January. Yet again on Sunday, the forward was absent from Ruben Amorim’s match day squad as a much improved United squad played out a thrilling 2-2 draw with Liverpool.
It was sixth successive match where Rashford has been unused, although his Portuguese boss insisted he was unavailable for the trip to Anfield due to illness.
Rashford was first axed for the win at Manchester City on December 15, along with team-mate Alejandro Garnacho.
Related articles
Just two days later, the ex-England international gave an exclusive interview to journalist Henry Winter where he said he believed the time was right for him to now leave Old Trafford. He also said there would be “no hard feelings” when he departed, having come though the United academy ranks.
There has been no shortage of reported interest in the 27-year-old. He’s already rejected the chance of a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League, instead said to be favouring staying in Europe to help his international ambitions.
A swap deal with Napoli for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has also been touted. And according to Sky Sports News, AC Milan are now one of a host of clubs looking to sign Rashford in January.
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
However, the Serie A side seemingly favour a short-term loan deal and are not looking to make a big-money bid. And any temporary deal would require United to pay a large amount of £300,000-per-week wages.
He signed a new deal after the 2022/23 season, Erik ten Hag’s first in charge. In that campaign, Rashford scored 30 times in all competitions - his best return in a United shirt - and helped the club win the League Cup.
His form has floundered since though, scoring just 15 times in the 18 months since. He also lost his place in the England squad this year, and wasn’t selected by Gareth Southgate for Euro 2024.
Don't miss...
Mikel Arteta gives Ethan Nwaneri news as star joins Bukayo Saka in injury room [LATEST]
Liverpool complete first transfer of January window as goalkeeper deal done [LATEST]
Man Utd star admits 'I know I can step up more' after Liverpool draw [LATEST]
Rashford’s contract runs until June 30, 2028, meaning United are unlikely to be willing to offload the player for a modest fee. And sending him out on loan would represent a risk in terms of his market value.
If he were to perform well abroad, INEOS would undoubtedly have more leverage to demand a big amount to sell him in a permanent transfer in the summer. But if Rashford doesn’t perform, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and co could also end up covering most of his wages only for interest from elsewhere to dwindle.
