Four. Five
Manchester United’s ongoing takeover process will not be a barrier to the club’s efforts to lock Marcus Rashford into a long-term deal at Old Trafford, according to David Ornstein.
That United is for sale is an open secret.
There have been at least two confirmed public offerings for the Red Devils. One is from Qatari investors, while the other is backed by INEOS billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
There was speculation that the ongoing takeover could be a stumbling block in United’s efforts to give Rashford a new deal.
During the Chelsea takeover before Todd Boehly and Clearlake took over Stamford Bridge, the London outfit were prevented from negotiating contract extensions and giving players new terms.
However, writing for The Athletic, Ornstein says that keeping Rashford and avoiding interest in the in-form striker remains high on United’s list of priorities.
“Discussions over the sale of United will not be an impediment to negotiations with Rashford, who is seen as an integral part of the club’s future prospects on the pitch,” he said.
“The 25-year-old has graduated from Old Trafford’s academy and is considered to have the potential to become one of the club’s best strikers, even potentially challenging Wayne Rooney as their all-time top scorer.”
“It is not yet clear if a new deal will be signed, but United’s intention is to reach an agreement, and manager Ten Hag said yesterday that securing Rashford’s future was a ‘priority’ for the club.”
Ornstein adds that United have already put plans in place for another summer spending spree.
The budget has been drawn up that includes contract extensions for players like Luke Shaw, Diogo Dalot and David de Gea.
Club bosses are cognizant of the fact that whoever comes in and takes over from the Glazers, spending will need to remain within the rules of financial fair play.
