Manchester United appears to have a low-key month ahead, although that could change. The club has limited flexibility in the transfer market this January after investing £206 million on five players during the summer. Additional compensation packages have not improved the club’s standing concerning spending limits. This summer, United paid approximately £503 million to Newcastle United for sporting director Dan Ashworth, who was dismissed just a few months later. Erik ten Hag is owed approximately £17 million in compensation following his termination, while United spent several million to release Ruben Amorim from his contract with Sporting CP. On the pitch, United’s poor performance has left them only seven points clear of the relegation zone. They urgently require additional players, but can only acquire new ones by selling some of their current options. Rashford has a preference for a move to Spain. Marcus Rashford has been connected with a potential transfer after being omitted from consecutive matchday lineups in December, leading him to express his interest in a “new challenge.” Despite denying that he has reached out to other clubs, the Times reports that the academy graduate would favor a move to Spain if he departs from Manchester. Transfers to Barcelona or especially Real Madrid appear improbable, but United is receptive to both loan and outright purchase offers, according to the report. Additionally, it mentions that Ruben Amorim believes January is a good time to sell the 27-year-old. MEN Sport notes that since United cannot bring in any new players without making sales first, the club might have to make tough decisions to improve their performance on the field. In the end, there are limited reasons for the club to retain Rashford right now. The problem is that not many clubs could pay his high salary during the season. Allowing him to leave on loan while covering his full wages would further harm the club’s financial situation.
