Manchester United eye Marcus Rashford’s replacement just as his exit nears
Manchester United have reportedly begun exploring options to replace Marcus Rashford—just hours after fresh developments indicated the out-of-favour forward is edging closer to a move away from Old Trafford.
The 27-year-old winger was loaned to Aston Villa for the second half of the 2024/25 season after falling down the pecking order under new head coach Ruben Amorim. While there was initial hope that Rashford could reintegrate into the squad, recent signs suggest otherwise.
Rashford’s omission from United’s 29-man squad for the pre-season friendly against Leeds in Stockholm on Saturday added fuel to speculation about his future. On the same day, The Athletic’s David Ornstein reported that Barcelona are making progress in their pursuit of Rashford, proposing a loan deal with an option to buy.
Barcelona’s interest is not new. Back in May, sporting director Deco publicly expressed admiration for Rashford and Liverpool’s Luis Díaz, saying:
“We like Luis, we like Rashford, and we like other players.”
Rashford himself has also spoken highly of Barça talent Lamine Yamal. In a June interview on the xBuyer YouTube channel, he praised the teenage sensation’s impact and didn’t rule out the idea of playing alongside him:
“Of course I’d love to. Everyone in the world wants to play with the best. Hopefully… we’ll see.”
United turn attention to Randal Kolo Muani
As speculation around Rashford’s future intensifies, United have reportedly begun looking at Paris Saint-Germain’s Randal Kolo Muani as a potential replacement.
According to Foot Mercato, both Manchester United and Newcastle are showing interest in the French striker, who enjoyed a productive loan spell at Juventus, scoring 10 goals and providing 3 assists in 22 appearances.
Although Kolo Muani is under contract at PSG until 2028, competition for attacking places has intensified following the club’s treble-winning campaign. With stars like Desire Doue, Bradley Barcola, Ousmane Dembélé, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia thriving, the 26-year-old may seek more regular minutes elsewhere.
Kolo Muani joined PSG in a £76.4 million move from Eintracht Frankfurt in 2023 but has struggled to meet expectations. According to Transfermarkt, his current market value has dropped to approximately €30 million (£26.1m).
For United, he represents a modern forward with versatility, intelligent movement, and strong link-up ability—traits that would fit well in Ruben Amorim’s system. With Rashford likely heading for the exit, Kolo Muani could soon emerge as his direct successor at Old Trafford.
