Marcus Rashford: PSG target Manchester United forward, but United chiefs are relaxed about the interest

Paris Saint Germain have registered an interest in signing Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford with preliminary talks with the Englishman's entourage already taking place, according to French outlet L'Equipe. 

The reports state that “discussions are advancing positively.” between PSG and Rashford’s camp.

AC Milan winger Rafael Leao is also on the list for the Ligue 1 champions. 

Rashford’s contract has one year left to run, but United do have the option to extend for a further year.

Following a poor season after a return from injury in 2021/22, it is thought that a fresh start away from Old Trafford as well as the opportunity to play in the Champions League, will appeal to the 24-year-old.

Marcus Rashford (Alamy)

PSG are reportedly on the market for a versatile forward as they look to move on number nine Mauro Icardi from a frontline which has already lost Angel Di Maria, and Arnaud Kalimuendo to Juventus and Rennes respectively.

It is thought that Rashford’s ability to play across the frontline appeals to PSG sporting director Luis Campos who feels the club needs a player who can operate from the left or through the middle.

L'Equipe state that whilst formal contact between the two clubs has yet to start, dialogue with Rashford’s entourage is open and that contact was made as early as last month.

Reports from the Daily Mail's Adrian Kajumba and Chris Wheeler have detailed that United's no.10 has prioritised staying at Old Trafford and that has been reiterated to the club chiefs during the summer.

Marcus Rashford against Melbourne Victory. (Man Utd)

This means that the Reds are very relaxed about the situation with their left-winger. Erik ten Hag praised his performances in pre-season last week.

However, according to French football journalist Santi Aoura, Rashford is keen on a move to the French champions and has an existing relationship with Kylian Mbappe, but it is not thought that this will lead to Rashford forcing the move.

PSG’s interest in Rashford is not a recent development with reports linking the United number 10 to the French capital dating back to 2019.

To date, this interest has yet to materialise in any formal approach for the forward however with Campos now at the French club as director of football he could view the chance to relaunch Rashford’s career as having huge payoff potential for his new employers.

United are still attempting to conclude the business of their own in the transfer market with football director John Murtough rumoured to have landed in Turin Italy on Thursday afternoon to meet with Adrien Rabiot’s mother Veronique.

He will be looking to finalise the personal terms over a move to the club for the French midfielder.

The Frenkie de Jong saga drags onto its fourth month, with no clear indication of what the end result for all parties involved will be.

United will hope to move a few more players in and out of the club before the window shuts however it seems likely that business will continue until deadline day.