Ferdinand urges United to reverse Rashford exit as Baturina emerges as £43m World Cup target

Rio Ferdinand has publicly urged Manchester United to reverse course on Marcus Rashford’s exit, while the club have simultaneously identified Croatia midfielder Martin Baturina as a transfer target after his eye-catching World Cup display against England.

Ferdinand’s change of heart on Rashford

Ferdinand, who had previously stated there was no way back for Rashford at Old Trafford, has now reversed his position after the 28-year-old’s resurgent form. Rashford helped Barcelona win La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup during his loan spell, then came off the bench to score in England’s 4-2 victory over Croatia at the World Cup on Wednesday.

United are reported to have placed a £40 million price tag on the academy graduate, with several Premier League clubs said to be interested. But Ferdinand believes the time apart may have benefited both player and club.

“Manchester United might have to start re-evaluating Marcus Rashford’s situation,” Ferdinand said on his YouTube channel. “I’m happy to change. I’m not wrong and strong, that’s not my game. It seems like Marcus Rashford has matured, the time away from the club may have done him the good he needed and maybe it’s cleansed both parties. Is it time to shake hands and for him to say, ‘I’m back’?”

Barcelona are still reported to be interested in a permanent or extended loan arrangement, and other clubs remain in the picture, meaning Rashford’s future is far from settled.

Baturina on United’s radar

While the Rashford situation develops, United have also been linked with Baturina, the 23-year-old Croatia attacking midfielder who scored one of his country’s two equalisers before England ultimately ran out 4-2 winners. According to Sky Italia, United are among several English clubs monitoring Baturina, with Leeds and Aston Villa also credited with interest. Bayern Munich have reportedly made enquiries as well.

Manager Michael Carrick is currently assembling his summer transfer priorities as United players return from World Cup duty, with business expected on both the incomings and outgoings fronts before the Premier League resumes.