Bayern Munich eye Rashford as Barcelona exit looms and United prioritise left-back signing

Marcus Rashford’s time at Barcelona appears to be over, with the Catalan club set to let their €30 million purchase option expire on 15 June without activating it — and Bayern Munich have emerged as serious suitors for the Manchester United forward.

Rashford was reportedly left blindsided by Barcelona’s decision to spend heavily on Anthony Gordon instead, having believed his performances warranted a permanent deal at the Nou Camp. The 28-year-old contributed 28 goals and assists in 49 appearances during his loan spell, but formal communication between Barcelona and United has yet to take place, meaning no concrete talks with other interested clubs are expected until next week.

Bayern Munich’s interest is significant. The German club had pursued Gordon before he joined Barcelona and, with Nicolas Jackson returning to Chelsea after his own loan spell, they are in need of left-side cover and a back-up for Harry Kane — roles Rashford could fill. A strong World Cup showing from the England forward could further accelerate a market for his services, with Premier League interest also anticipated.

On the transfer front, United are now more likely to sign a left-back than a left-winger this summer. Patrick Dorgu’s versatility on the wing — underlined by a sensational goal for Denmark against Ukraine during the international break — has reduced the urgency to recruit a wide attacker. With Matheus Cunha also capable of operating on the left, United’s attention has shifted to full-back cover.

Luke Shaw remains the only recognised left-back in the squad if Dorgu is deployed as a winger, and while Shaw started every Premier League game last season, doubts persist over his ability to handle a full fixture load. He is also entering the final year of his contract, making the search for a successor a priority.

Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall is a player United are keen on, though the situation is complicated by Newcastle’s financial strength following their £69 million outlay on Gordon. Hall was not always a guaranteed starter at St James’ Park, appearing on the bench for 10 Premier League games last season, which may give United some leverage.

Eintracht Frankfurt’s Nathaniel Brown had also been scouted, but the 22-year-old is understood to have agreed personal terms with Bayern Munich ahead of a summer move. Myles Lewis-Skelly was another name of interest, but his emergence as a midfielder for Arsenal late in the season has effectively closed that avenue.

United retain a longstanding interest in Morgan Rogers and hold a positive view of Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye, though neither is considered a priority as the club’s summer planning takes shape around defensive reinforcement.