Harry Maguire would fully support Marcus Rashford being reintegrated into the Manchester United squad this summer.

As things stand, there is a very real possibility that could come to fruition in the coming weeks.

Marcus Rashford: The state of play

It was confirmed over a fortnight ago that Barcelona had let Rashford’s £26 million buy option expire without activating it.

They have been keen to instead negotiate new terms with United in order to sign the forward for either a reduced fee or by taking him on another season-long loan.

Appearances Goals Assists
49 14 14
Rashford’s record for Barcelona in all competitions

United are, of course, entirely closed off to both options. If they were to facilitate his exit this transfer window, it would be via a permanent deal in which their financial demands are met.

Where else might Rashford end up if not Barcelona or United?

Bayern Munich were linked with Rashford in recent weeks, but their acquisition of Morocco star Ismael Saibari from PSV Eindhoven may have satisfied their attacking shake-up.

In addition, the 28-year-old Red would’ve had to agree a sizeable pay cut to make the switch to the Allianz Arena.

His £325,000-a-week wages are going to be a stumbling block for most clubs, and it’s one of the main reasons United have prioritised a sale over a return to M16.

What Maguire had to say about compatriot Rashford

Rashford is currently plying his trade at the World Cup with England, making his first start on Saturday night in a 2-0 win over Panama to top their group.

He scored in the Three Lions’ opening win over Croatia with a stellar finish to extend England’s lead to 4-2, but was unable to add to his account in the subsequent two games.

When speaking on the attacker’s situation on The Rest Is Football, Maguire was put on the spot over the prospect of Rashford joining back up with the United squad when the tournament is over.

He said: “Yeah, of course [I’d want him back]. I have an amazing relationship with Marcus and have had some great times with him over the years.

“I know what a wonderful player he can be. I’m sure it’s up to the club and up to Marcus to find a mutual agreement. Of course, if Marcus does come back, we want him to come back and play and be happy and confident.

“It needs to be right for himself, it needs to be right for the club, but everyone knows what a great player Marcus can be for whatever club he plays for next season.”

Author

  • Isabel, 25, is a football writer who has previously gained experience in the industry as the editor of Stretty News, along with work on Caught Offside, Last Word on Football and Give Me Sport. She is now the editor of UtdReport.