Arsenal receive Marcus Rashford boost after major Manchester United future claim

Marcus Rashford has acknowledged it might be time to seek pastures new, amid rumours that Manchester United are prepared to entertain offers for him.

At just 27-years-old, Rashford found himself omitted from United’s derby day squad chosen by new head coach Ruben Amorim - a decision made in light of his recent form. The academy product, who has been with United since he was a mere seven-years-old, is rumoured to be on the market come January.

"For me, personally, I think I'm ready for a new challenge and the next steps," Henry Winter quotes Rashford as saying during an event at Button Lane Primary School where he was distributing Christmas gifts.

"When I leave it's going to be 'no hard feelings'. You're not going to have any negative comments from me about Manchester United. That's me as a person. If I know that a situation is already bad I'm not going to make it worse.

"I've seen how other players have left in the past and I don't want to be that person. When I leave I'll make a statement and it will be from me."

Inquiring whether he'd remain loyal to the Reds, he confidently asserted, "Yes! 100 per cent. 100 per cent."

Reflecting on Amorim's surprising call, the United star said: "It's disheartening to be left out of a derby but it's happened, we won the game so let's move on. It's disappointing but I'm also someone as I've got older I can deal with setbacks. What am I going to do about it? Sit there and cry about it. Or do my best the next time I'm available."

Rashford, who hit the 30-goal mark for United in the 2022/23 season, has seen a dip in form over the past 18 months despite penning a lucrative long-term contract. The England international, last seen representing his country at the 2022 World Cup, has previously been linked with moves to Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona.

This could be a huge boost for Arsenal in their search to sign a new striker. Rashford has been linked with the Gunners and there has been reports suggesting that he has met with boss Mikel Arteta.

However, it remains to be seen whether United would be willing to sell to their rivals.