Chelsea and Atletico Madrid have thrown their hats in the ring to sign Marcus Rashford from Manchester United on a free transfer.
The England star is out of contract at the end of this season, although the club have the option to extend the deal for a further year.
And according to a report by Italian outlet Il Repubblica, if United fail to reach a deal, the Londoners and Spaniards have already made it known that they would appreciate signing Rashford if he allows his contract to run out.
“Chelsea have a great interest in the player,” says the outlet.
“London people…are interested in the England international and the request for €12m net per season, without bonuses, does not scare the Blues starter.
“Rashford’s priority is to renew his contract with United, but in case of black smoke, Chelsea will try to go after the striker from January.
“Outside the Premier League, the 24-year-old player is also highly appreciated by Simeone’s Atlético de Madrid, who had already asked the club in the last market session for a flexible striker, capable of playing both in the role of first striker like in that attacking winger.”
While it may be true that both mentioned clubs are aware of the situation, there are some issues with the account.
First, he doesn’t mention that optional extra year the club has, which United would of course activate rather than allow the player to leave for free.
Secondly, the reported salary demand of €12m seems well below the kind of figure Rashford would actually demand and is even slightly lower than his current contract.
According to Spotrac.com, the 24-year-old is currently earning just over €12m, so given his age, there would be no reason United wouldn’t be willing to continue paying that in a new deal. In all likelihood, the Rashford camp would be looking for an increase in that amount.
Recent reports have claimed that talks are already taking place between the club and the player about a new deal. After a rough spell, a rebound in form means it’s the perfect time for the Academy graduate to get a better deal than he might have a few weeks ago.
So the timing of the report could be the result of a leaked warning shot to United by Rashford’s people that they had better accept his terms and fast. They are very wise to strike while the iron is hot.
