Manchester United have been made aware of two swap deals that could ultimately bring the curtain down on Marcus Rashford‘s Old Trafford career. The 28-year-old is currently on course for a return to his parent club this summer following a triumphant season-long loan at Barcelona.
Yet that homecoming could be shelved if Michael Carrick’s side act on one of two proposals. The first, suggested by a former United star, would see the England star head to AC Milan in exchange for Rafael Leao.
The Portuguese winger, who carries a £131million release clause, has consistently been linked with a move to Manchester in recent months, with reports indicating the Italian giants are willing to let him go.
The straight swap has received the backing of United legend Jaap Stam, who believes the deal would work in everyone’s favour. Speaking to ComeOn, the Dutchman said: “Maybe a swap between Rafael Leao and Marcus Rashford could work. Leao is also a good player.
“He has shown his potential at Milan, of course, in what he can do. I think he is a player that should be on the list of targets for Man Utd. Having said that, you need to have a look not only at the skill of a player, but also at the mentality of players.
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“You need to consider the situation where the club is, what player they are bringing in that is going to help the club going forward, so that you don’t get any irritations from players who are not being picked to start.”
Another potential solution to settle the uncertainty surrounding Rashford’s future could come in the form of signing Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado. Mundo Deportivo has reported that the Premier League heavyweights have thrown their hat into the ring for the Spanish international.
View 3 ImagesRafael Leao has been linked with a move to Old Trafford(Image: Getty Images)
A deal to bring the 22-year-old to Old Trafford could offer the La Liga champions a more straightforward path to signing Rashford without having to stump up the £26m purchase option. Carrick will be eager to strengthen his midfield following Casemiro’s exit.
Barca are yet to activate the clause they hold for Rashford, with reports indicating that talks have taken place over the transfer fee. Rashford has netted 14 goals and laid on 14 assists in 49 appearances across all competitions this season, with his influence prompting team-mate Frenkie de Jong to call for him to stay in Catalonia.
View 3 ImagesMarc Casado started just 10 league games for Barcelona this season(Image: Icon Sport via Getty Images)
Speaking to Sport, the Dutchman said: “Yes, I believe so. In the minutes he’s played, he has given us a lot: goals, assists, depth. He is a fast player, who threatens rival defences. I would be delighted if he continued with us.
“He arrived here with a lot of enthusiasm. He was very happy to be here and from the first moment he arrived you could already see that he wanted to stay. He’s tried to adapt as best he could and I’ve seen him do well.”
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