Rashford blocked from joining City or Liverpool as United plan showdown talks

Marcus Rashford is set for showdown talks with Manchester United bosses after his hopes of a permanent move to Barcelona collapsed, leaving the forward’s future in limbo heading into the summer transfer window. United have moved to restrict his options, blocking any approach from Premier League rivals Manchester City and Liverpool, while Arsenal have cooled their interest.

Rashford spent last season on loan at Barcelona, but the La Liga club opted against activating their agreed option-to-buy fee. Despite the managerial change at Old Trafford — Michael Carrick replacing Ruben Amorim earlier this year — Rashford is understood to believe his long-term future lies away from the club.

United have already moved to strengthen their midfield, agreeing a £35 million deal to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson, who has undergone a medical and is set to sign a four-year contract with an option for a fifth year. The 26-year-old’s arrival at Old Trafford will be delayed, however, after he was called up to Brazil’s World Cup squad as a late replacement for the injured Wesley. He is expected to be one of at least two new central midfielders brought in this summer.

Sandro Tonali is another midfield target being linked with a move to United. The Italian’s future at Newcastle United is uncertain after the club missed out on European football, making him a potential option for Carrick’s side as they prepare for a return to the Champions League.

On the contract front, Bruno Fernandes, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw and Altay Bayindir are all entering the final year of their deals. Fernandes, who broke the Premier League assist record this season, has been told by United chiefs that they want him to stay. The club holds a 12-month extension option on his contract, and while no new long-term deal is currently planned, that could be revisited during the 2026/27 campaign.

United also received a financial boost with the confirmation that former manager Ruben Amorim has been appointed head coach at AC Milan. Amorim was dismissed in January after 14 months in charge, leaving United liable for a £15.9 million compensation bill. His move to Milan clears that obligation, saving the club a significant sum as they look to fund their summer rebuild.