Arsenal explored a move for Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo last year, with Marcus Rashford now emerging as a shock target ahead of the summer transfer window.
Mainoo's Transformation at Old Trafford
Mainoo's fortunes at Old Trafford have undergone a complete transformation. Having been frozen out of the first-team by Ruben Amorim for the first half of the season, the England international failed to start a single Premier League game until the Portuguese head coach left the club in January. Told he was in direct competition with club captain Bruno Fernandes for a starting role, Mainoo was immediately restored to the team by Michael Carrick and has played almost every minute under the new manager, missing just one game through injury.
The 21-year-old signed a new long-term deal last week, celebrating it with a winning goal against Liverpool on Sunday. While his long-term future is now secured, Mainoo pushed for a loan move away from Manchester in the final days of the summer transfer window. As many as 10 clubs were interested in his services, with Napoli emerging as a possible destination. But according to the Daily Mail, Arsenal were 'at the front of the queue' to sign him, waiting to see how the situation played out.
Rashford's Barcelona Loan and Arsenal Interest
While that ship has now sailed, the Gunners have also been credited with interest in another United star. Rashford joined Barcelona on a season-long loan last summer, eager to kickstart his career after two bleak campaigns in Manchester. That loan deal included an option to buy for £26 million, but it is increasingly unlikely Barcelona will trigger that clause on its current terms. The La Liga giants have explored a second loan arrangement, having also tried to negotiate a lower price – something United will not entertain.
Should the stand-off with Barcelona continue, United will listen to other offers for Rashford, with the Mail naming Arsenal and Bayern Munich as two clubs who are carefully monitoring the situation. Mikel Arteta's side were keen to sign a left winger last summer, exploring moves for Anthony Gordon and Rodrygo. Eventually, Noni Madueke was signed from Chelsea, with Eberechi Eze joining from Crystal Palace to bolster their attack. Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli have continued to share duties on the left this season, but it is an area of the pitch Arsenal will consider strengthening this summer.
