Reports have surfaced claiming that Marcus Rashford has expressed a desire to leave Manchester United in the upcoming January transfer window. The 26-year-old forward, who has struggled to replicate his form from previous seasons, is reportedly exploring three potential destinations, including one within the Premier League.
Rashford’s performances have notably declined since his stellar 2022/23 campaign, where he scored 17 goals and provided five assists in the league. Over the past 41 Premier League matches, he has managed only eight goals and four assists, a significant drop-off.
According to the Spanish outlet Nacional, Rashford attributes his dip in form to what he perceives as a lack of “ambitious or stable project” at Old Trafford. Frustrated with the club’s current trajectory, Rashford has reportedly instructed his agent to secure a transfer in January.
The report highlights three clubs interested in Rashford’s services: Aston Villa, Napoli, and Marseille. Among these, Aston Villa emerges as an intriguing yet unexpected option. Under the guidance of Unai Emery, Villa has experienced a remarkable resurgence, establishing themselves as strong contenders in both the Premier League and the Champions League.
While a move to Villa may seem unconventional, the club’s upward trajectory could appeal to Rashford, particularly given their growing reputation under Emery’s leadership.
Napoli is reportedly the frontrunner to secure Rashford’s signature. The Italian club, currently leading Serie A, offers a highly competitive environment with ambitions to secure domestic and European titles.
A move to Naples would reunite Rashford with former Manchester United teammates Scott McTominay and Romelu Lukaku, both of whom now play under Antonio Conte. Conte is said to be eager to bring Rashford to Napoli as part of his plans to bolster the squad’s attacking options.
Marseille has also been named as a possible destination, though financial constraints may limit the feasibility of such a transfer. A move to the French side could see Rashford link up with Mason Greenwood, another former Manchester United player, who recently joined the club. However, Marseille’s inability to meet Manchester United’s valuation of Rashford makes this option the least likely of the three.
While the accuracy of these claims remains uncertain, TEAMtalk’s insider Fraser Gillan has suggested that Rashford leaving Manchester United is indeed a realistic scenario, either as early as January or at a later date in 2025. Other European heavyweights, such as Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich, are also expected to monitor the situation closely and could potentially enter the race for Rashford’s signature if circumstances permit.
Amid Rashford’s reported discontent, Manchester United appears to be active in reshaping their squad. The club is reportedly working to disrupt Real Madrid’s pursuit of Alphonso Davies, who is in the final year of his contract. Additionally, United is considering loaning Antony back to Ajax in January while expressing interest in Sporting CP’s teenage forward Geovany Quenda.
These developments suggest that Manchester United faces significant challenges in retaining key players and bolstering their squad. Rashford’s potential departure, combined with their interest in high-profile and emerging talents, could signal a period of substantial transition for the club.
