Manchester United brace for Chelsea transfer move as Marcus Rashford breaks silence
Manchester United find themselves embroiled in January transfer sagas left, right and centre. The latest to spring to the fore is the exit of Alejandro Garnacho.
When once it was Marcus Rashford who was meant to be departing next, Chelsea's increased interest in the 20-year-old has ensured the closing days of the month won't go without drama. As MEN Sport understand, the Blues are now the frontrunners ahead of Napoli.
Man United, while hoping not to, would not so reluctantly stand in the way of their academy graduate were he to be the means securing a critical sum of pure profit. This would boost the club's position financially while also opening the door to Ruben Amorim making additions to the squad.
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Still refusing to the drawn into Garnacho transfer discussion after Thursday's 2-1 win over Rangers, the boss said: "No, I’m focused on the games and he’s here, he’s a player for Manchester United. Was really important for us today and let’s see in the next days."
With this in mind, MEN Sport have taken a look at the least media rumours and latest from United.
Chelsea offer
Adding to MEN Sport's own report, our colleagues at football.london filled in some integral pieces of the puzzle regarding Chelsea's interest. Firstly, Stamford Bridge sources have indicated that their opening offer will be made 'very soon'.
The Blues have not just looked at Man United's Argentine, either. They have scouted across Europe, namely Jamie Gittens of Borussia Dortmund, before settling on Garnacho as their top target.
The reason they are pursuing a left-wing player this January comes down to Mykhailo Mudryk's suspension last month.
MEN Sport says: It is another debate entirely whether Chelsea need a new winger. Already able to play the position they've got Jadon Sancho on loan from Old Trafford, plus Pedro Neto and Joao Felix. All three were only bought last summer! What matters to Man United though is the offer. If it is the correct amount, club officials will have nothing else to do but consider given the club's financial situation. Here's an idea - take the money and buy Gittens from Dortmund. He's a brilliant player.
Rashford breaks silence
Sitting in the stands for Man United's last-gasp Europa League victory over Rangers was Rashford.
The attacker has not played for the club since December, having been dropped by Amorim before publicly stating his desire for 'a new challenge'. Since then he has been spotted frequently either at matches or the training ground, while being linked to numerous European clubs such as AC Milan, Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund.
His Instagram story posted in the opening minutes of the match showed support for the team, saying: "Come on the boys."
MEN Sport says: It is comforting to see Rashford get behind the team, even if he is not playing. That said, by showing his face on TV cameras he is only drawing the spotlight on himself when we are now several days from the end of the window and seemingly no closer to finalising his exit than on January 1. He has to have gone by deadline day or this is just going to end poorly for all concerned.