Speculation continues regarding the future of Marcus Rashford, a forward for Manchester United, despite his return to the club for pre-season training. Former Arsenal and England defender Lee Dixon has suggested a potential swap deal involving Rashford and Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Rashford spent the previous season on loan at Barcelona, where he contributed 14 goals and 14 assists. However, the Catalan club did not exercise their option for a permanent transfer, leading to his return to Old Trafford. His performance in La Liga earned him a spot in England’s World Cup squad.
Potential Swap Deal Discussed
Dixon, at 62 years old, expressed his support for a swap. He stated that he would likely agree to such a deal, viewing it as an opportunity for Lewis-Skelly to develop his game elsewhere. Dixon also suggested that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta could provide the support and freedom Rashford might need, particularly on the left side of the attack. Dixon believes Rashford could be a valuable addition to Arsenal’s squad, despite some reservations about his consistency as a top-class player.
Only five players have played for both Arsenal and Manchester United in the Premier League era: Mikael Silvestre, Robin van Persie, Danny Welbeck, Alexis Sanchez, and Henrikh Mkhitaryan. A potential swap involving Rashford and Lewis-Skelly could add to this list.
Arsenal is reportedly seeking to strengthen the left side of their attack, especially after the sale of Leandro Trossard to Besiktas and their unsuccessful pursuit of Vinicius Junior. Rashford has experience playing alongside Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka for England, which could be a factor in Arsenal’s interest.
Wage Considerations and Squad Integration
One potential obstacle to a move for Rashford could be his wages. According to Capology, Rashford’s estimated weekly wage is £325,000, which would make him Arsenal’s highest-paid player, surpassing Bukayo Saka, who earns £300,000 weekly. This could impact Arsenal’s wage structure and club culture.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has indicated that Rashford will be reintegrated into the first-team squad if a suitable buyer is not found. Rashford is expected to join the squad for pre-season training in Dublin and could feature in a friendly against Leeds.
Lewis-Skelly, a 19-year-old, has been involved in Arsenal’s friendly matches and started their recent game against Borussia Dortmund in the Emirates Cup. He could offer options at left-back and in midfield, areas where Manchester United’s squad is reportedly in need of depth. His estimated weekly wage is £45,000.
Reports suggest that Manchester United might be open to a relatively low transfer fee for Rashford if it helps manage his substantial wages. Rashford’s previous loan spells at Aston Villa and Barcelona saw him regain form, but a permanent transfer has not yet materialized.
Michael Owen also suggested that Arsenal should consider Rashford as an alternative after their unsuccessful bid for Vinicius Junior. Owen believes Rashford, who could be available for around £40 million, would fit well into Arteta’s plans.
Rashford’s return to Manchester United for pre-season training follows his loan spell at Barcelona, where the option for a permanent deal expired.
Source: manchestereveningnews.co.uk