Manchester United Identify Everton Star as Potential Rashford Successor
Manchester United have reportedly set their sights on Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye as a possible replacement for Marcus Rashford ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window. This development comes amid growing uncertainty surrounding Rashford's long-term future at Old Trafford.
Rashford's Barcelona Loan and Potential Permanent Move
Marcus Rashford joined Barcelona on a season-long loan deal last summer as Manchester United invested approximately £200 million to revamp their attacking options with the signings of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko. During his time in Spain, the 28-year-old England international has made 37 appearances across all competitions for the reigning La Liga champions, contributing 10 goals and 13 assists.
Despite facing stiff competition for starting positions in Hansi Flick's lineup, Rashford has started 14 of his 23 league matches this season. His resurgence in Spanish football has intensified speculation about his future, with Barcelona reportedly "finally convinced" of his value and actively pursuing a permanent transfer.
According to Spanish publication Sport, Barcelona's hierarchy is "already working" to exercise a €30 million (£26 million) option to sign Rashford outright at the season's conclusion. The United academy graduate is said to "feel comfortable" in Barcelona and has expressed interest in continuing his career at Camp Nou to those close to him.
Manchester United's Search for Alternatives
United manager Michael Carrick had reportedly been "counting on" having Rashford available next season, but the forward's apparent desire to remain in Spain has forced the club to explore alternative options in the transfer market.
The report identifies several attackers on United's shortlist, including RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande, who has impressed with his speed and dribbling ability during a phenomenal debut season in Germany. Other names mentioned are Como's Jesus Rodriguez, Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola, and Strasbourg's Martial Godo.
Iliman Ndiaye Emerges as Prime Domestic Target
Closer to home, Manchester United are believed to be monitoring Iliman Ndiaye's situation at Everton. The 26-year-old winger would require no adaptation period to the Premier League, having enjoyed two outstanding seasons with the Toffees since his £16 million move from Marseille in 2024.
In a mid-table Everton side this season, Ndiaye has registered five goals and three assists in the English top flight. The Senegalese international also played a crucial role in his country's triumphant 2026 Africa Cup of Nations campaign under manager Pape Thiaw.
Everton could realize a significant profit if they decide to sell Ndiaye this summer, with the player still having three-and-a-half years remaining on his current contract at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Former United Star Endorses Ndiaye Move
In a recent interview with AceOdds.com, ex-Manchester United striker Louis Saha encouraged his former club to pursue Ndiaye, describing him as a "mix of Amad and Mbeumo."
"Ndiaye, from the moment he signed, he's been an amazing talent. I would love to see him, maybe at some point at Manchester United, to be honest," Saha explained. "He's a very skillful player. I like Ndiaye's style. Like Mbeumo, he's comfortable with the ball. His work rate is very good... he's a bit like a mix of Amad and Mbeumo to be honest."
As the summer transfer window approaches, Manchester United's recruitment strategy appears focused on identifying cost-effective replacements who can make an immediate impact, with Iliman Ndiaye emerging as a prime domestic candidate to fill the potential void left by Marcus Rashford's departure.
