The England winger is not part of Michael Carrick’s plans ahead of the new season – and now he could be used as a substitute to sign a midfielder.
Manchester United are considering offering Marcus Rashford as part of a deal with AS Roma to reduce the price of Manu Koné, a 25-year-old midfielder. Koné is one of Michael Carrick’s wishes in the summer window.
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United are looking to restructure their midfield following Casemiro’s departure and Manuel Ugarte’s cruciate ligament injury during the World Cup. However, they refuse to pay the £51 million – about €60 million – that Roma are demanding for the Frenchman.
Aston Villa, who had Marcus Rashford on loan before Barcelona, are said to be interested and they have put in 30 million euros. – Manchester United, who deep down know his value, do not want Rashford in a credible competitor for the top four places in the Premier League.
Roma opens for barter
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, AS Roma have opened up a swap deal that includes Rashford to bring about a transfer for Koné. Saudi Arabian Al Ahli is also showing interest in the midfielder, but United hope to use Rashford as a bargaining chip.
After investing £85 million in Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, Carrick & co. need a third midfielder to compete on several fronts.
The 28-year-old Rashford spent the 2025/26 season on loan at FC Barcelona. He has a contract with United until 2028, but has not played for the club since December 2024. His £40 million buyout clause has expired, and his move to Italy will therefore depend on whether he agrees to adjust his salary – or if United are willing to cover part of it.
Roma must sell to buy
AS Roma need to sell the French international in order to comply with UEFA’s financial fair play rules – and to finance their own signings. If they do not agree to a transfer, the Roma management is demanding that any bid must match 60 million euros.
At Old Trafford, Carrick has kept the door ajar for Rashford to stay if a permanent transfer does not materialise. But United would prefer to get rid of the winger in order to reduce wage costs.
Meetings in the first week of August
The boards of directors of Manchester United and AS Roma will have further meetings during the first week of August 2026.
The transfer for Manu Koné depends on one thing: whether Marcus Rashford’s agents accept the financial terms from Italy – or whether Al Ahli makes an offer that satisfies Roma’s demands.
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