AS Monaco have placed Manchester United star Marcus Rashford on their transfer shortlist and could swoop for him soon, according to The Telegraph.
The Ligue 1 outfit are reportedly crafting a package to tempt the 27-year-old forward, who wants a new challenge after a torrid season at Old Trafford.
Rashford’s brother and agent, Dwaine Maynard, has sparked speculation about the forward’s future by holding exploratory talks with AC Milan earlier this week. However, the Italian giants, like most suitors, will struggle to afford his salary.
Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund have also expressed their interest, adding to the mounting pressure on United to clarify Rashford’s role under manager Ruben Amorim.
Barcelona were the latest name thrown into the mix, but their debilitating finances mean a move is far-fetched. Juventus sniffed around the goods, but they appear more interested in teammate Joshua Zirkzee.
Monaco are positioning themselves to secure his signature. Les Monegasques see Rashford as someone who could give their silverware ambitions this season a boost. Currently sitting third in Ligue 1 and firmly in the Champions League play-off spots, Adi Hutter’s side aims to bolster their attacking options as they push for domestic and European glory.
With the imminent signing of Danish striker Mika Biereth from Sturm Graz, the club’s focus has turned to versatile wide forwards, and Rashford fits the profile perfectly.
Monaco have one advantage over other suitors. With no income tax in the Principality, they could offer Rashford a highly attractive wage package to match his reported £300,000-a-week salary.
This could prove decisive, especially since Rashford has already turned down lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia, prioritising competition at the highest level to reignite his England career under Thomas Tuchel.
Rashford’s United future remains clouded after being excluded from the last six squads, reportedly due to illness. Amorim has publicly demanded higher standards in training, fuelling speculation about a possible exit.