For Marcus Rashford, January could prove to be a month that will define the rest of his career.
The Manchester United winger has spoken openly about his desire for a “new challenge” after spending his life at Old Trafford and it seems increasingly likely that his wish will be granted before the end of the winter window. From today’s perspective, a loan move seems more likely than a permanent sale.
Understandably, the 27-year-old has an extensive list of admirers. While his standards have fallen over the last 18 months, Rashford achieved a 30-goal season in the 2022/23 season, having scored over 20 goals in two of the previous three seasons.
Potential buyers are betting that this durability and devastating quality will be rediscovered away from the glare of Manchester.
With that in mind, here are Rashford’s most likely destinations – ranked, of course.
Rashford has reportedly already rejected several offers from the cash-rich Saudi Pro League. With his £300,000-a-week wage a stumbling block for most clubs seeking a permanent deal, many teams in the Middle East would be able to meet and increase these wage demands.
The fact that Rashford has rejected a move suggests he will not change his mind, even if potential desperation increases later in the January window. The sight of the difficulties suffered by his former international teammate Jordan Henderson might be enough to dissuade him.
The Man Utd No.10 might turn his nose up at the prospect of a move to West Ham. The Irons lack the prestige of many of his other suitors, with a disappointing start to the season under Julen Lopetegui failing to improve their status.
However, West Ham are believed to be in the mix for Rashford, although they realize they are unlikely to be the most compelling pursuer. However, the arrival of new head coach Graham Potter could be a factor playing into the Hammers’ hands, as could the fact that Rashford does not have to give up the comfort of English football.
Rashford will have seen how a loan move to West Ham in 2021 helped his former team-mate Jesse Lingard rediscover his deadly streak. Could it offer him the same safe haven?
Is Marcus Rashford in line for Barcelona?
One can imagine that the Catalan giants would be unable to plan such a move given that ongoing financial mismanagement means they can’t even register the players they have (Dani Olmo, Pau Victor, we’re looking at you). , Friends).
But the word from Spain is that Barca will give everything to sign Rashford *checks notes* The Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys Stadium – whether they even need him, given Lamine Yamal and Raphinha rattling around on the wings, remains to be seen.
The surprise candidate for Rashford’s loan is the Italian club Como, which was promoted to Serie A for the first time in 21 years before the current season. Under coach Cesc Fabregas they are currently battling relegation, although their survival in the second half of the season is anything but certain.
Rashford would certainly be a big fish in a small pond in Lombardy, especially after his former teammate Raphael Varane retired in September after joining Como in the summer. It would offer guaranteed playing time and fewer expectations.
However, putting in top performances against a weaker team is its own challenge. Como average just over a goal per game in Serie A and Rashford would face unique pressure to keep them safe.
Man Utd are extremely unlikely to loan Rashford out to direct opponents – perhaps they have learned their lesson after sending Jadon Sancho to Chelsea, where the winger is now thriving – but the Red Devils and Tottenham do not have a bitter rivalry.
Spurs are looking for reinforcements this winter, including Rashford. Tottenham are keen to strengthen their forward line – even if the defense is in desperate need of fresh blood – and Ange Postecoglou would be a tempting coach for most attacking players.
Rashford, who has scored six goals in 17 appearances with Spurs, would enjoy plenty of attacking freedom in north London, although he would face stiff competition from Son Heung-min for a starting spot on his preferred left wing.
Rashford may have heard horror stories about Antonio Conte from friends and teammates, but he could have the chance to experience the brutal Italian first-hand for the rest of the season. Napoli, who were led to the summit of Serie A under the former Chelsea and Spurs manager, are on the hunt for his signing.
Their interest in Rashford could depend on the future of Georgian superstar Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who is of interest to Man Utd and a host of other European clubs. Napoli are finally ready to sell the tricky winger and Rashford could hypothetically be used as a bargaining chip for a deal with the Red Devils.
However, the fear of playing under such a defensive-minded coach could prove to be a key factor in Rashford agreeing to such a move.
Juventus’ lack of experience in wide attacking areas has proven to be a problem for Thiago Motta during his debut season in Turin. The Old Lady has been stoic defensively this season but lacked flair, consistency and spark at the other end of the pitch.
Of course, they are looking to resolve this particular issue in January, with Rashford among their targets. Juve’s current striker options fail to excite, and even star striker Dusan Vlahovic is struggling to fully convince fans at the Allianz Stadium.
Juve certainly don’t lack the prestige that Rashford might want for his first move from Old Trafford and he would immediately be the Bianconeri’s first choice.
Borussia Dortmund has often offered refuge to the Englishman. Jude Bellingham and Jadon Sancho thrived at Signal Iduna Park, the latter finding himself on loan from Man Utd upon his return there last season. shape again. Jamie Gittens is also enjoying a strong season within her current squad.
Such stories could serve as inspiration for Rashford, who would work under exciting young coach Nuri Sahin. Sancho rebuilt his reputation with the Bundesliga giants last season and reached the Champions League final, paving his way to west London last summer.
Dortmund, a club that emphasizes attack and has one of the best fan bases in football, could provide Rashford with just the refuge he needs as he returns to the elite level. These Bundesliga leaders would be in trouble.
It may be quicker to name the Italian teams not keen on signing Rashford this winter, with AC Milan leading the race. They were the first team to officially approach Man Utd, with the recent Supercoppa champions looking to recharge under new coach Sergio Conceicao.
Rashford’s representatives have reportedly discussed a potential move with Milan following the trip to Italy, with a loan deal potentially including an option to buy depending on wage demands.
Rashford would face many familiar faces in Milan, with England trio Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Tammy Abraham and Fikayo Tomori all representing the Rossoneri. That would certainly make it easier to get used to it.
With the tempting Rafael Leao there would be strong competition for a place on the left wing, but a move to the seven-time European champions could prove an offer too good to refuse.