On November 22, 2018, reports said Marcus Rashford was open to a move to Real Madrid as Manchester United tried to keep him at Old Trafford with a new contract offer.
The England forward had 18 months left on his United deal at the time, and Real were said to be tracking him closely. According to the report, the Spanish club had already contacted Rashford’s representatives to signal that they were serious about a transfer to the Bernabeu.
Rashford, then 21, was said to be frustrated by his role under Jose Mourinho. He had not secured a fixed place in the team and had been used centrally, on the wing and as a substitute during the season.
The Sun also claimed Real scouts watched him during England’s UEFA Nations League win over Croatia at Wembley on Sunday. Gareth Southgate had warned Rashford that he needed regular club football if he wanted to keep his place in the England squad.
Despite the speculation, Rashford was reported to have no intention of leaving his boyhood club unless his situation changed. The article said he was concerned that his development was stalling and that he would be willing to speak to the Spanish side if matters did not improve.
Manchester United, meanwhile, were preparing a stronger offer to tie him down. Ed Woodward was said to want a new agreement completed before the end of the season, with terms of around £150,000 a week plus bonuses. Rashford was also said to be aware of United’s determination to reach a deal, which could strengthen his hand in talks.
Get the latest sports news updates. Subscribe to our SMS sports service by texting 'SPORTS' to 22840.
