Michael Owen believes Arsenal should turn their attention to Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford after failing to land Vinicius Junior. The former England striker suggests the 28-year-old could be available for as little as £40 million, offering a more affordable alternative for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Arsenal’s search for a left winger continues
Arsenal have been actively seeking to bolster their left-wing options following the sale of Leandro Trossard. Vinicius Junior was their primary target, with the Gunners prepared to make the Real Madrid star the highest-paid player in Premier League history. However, Vinicius chose to remain in Spain, signing a new contract with Madrid, leaving Arsenal to explore other options.
The club is now reportedly considering a move for Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola, who has also been linked with Liverpool. Yet Owen believes a more pragmatic approach could involve Rashford, who spent last season on loan at Barcelona.
Owen’s case for Rashford
Speaking to Metro, Owen expressed his view that Rashford would be a sensible acquisition. “I didn’t see Vinicius Junior to Arsenal happening, but a move for someone like Rashford would make sense,” he said. “This would be a move I can see happening and makes sense as Arsenal are looking for a left-sided striker.”
Owen added: “He would fit well into Arteta’s plans and work well with the rest of the squad they have. So I can see this happening if Arsenal were to approach Manchester United.” Rashford’s future at United remains uncertain as he prepares to return for pre-season training next week, potentially featuring in the friendly against Leeds United on Wednesday.
Rashford’s situation at Manchester United
The England international had expressed a desire to extend his loan at Barcelona, but the Catalan club opted to pursue Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon instead. Rashford is now expected to rejoin the Red Devils, with new manager Michael Carrick reportedly keen to reintegrate him into the squad.
Owen believes Carrick is well-suited to help revive Rashford’s career at his boyhood club. “He looks the perfect person to put an arm around his shoulder to make him feel part of the squad and back into the mix at Manchester United,” Owen told Metro. “He is a World Cup England player, so he is of top quality and can be a big asset to Manchester United. Spending time in Barcelona can only further benefit his career and experience, so I guess it could be 50/50, but Carrick could be the right man to get the best out of Rashford.”
Impact on Arsenal’s transfer plans
If Arsenal were to secure Rashford, it would address their immediate need for a left-sided attacker without the financial strain of a blockbuster deal. The £40 million price tag represents a significant saving compared to the investment required for Vinicius Junior, allowing the club to allocate resources elsewhere. However, competition for Rashford’s signature could emerge, with other Premier League clubs monitoring his situation.
As the transfer window progresses, Arsenal’s next move will be closely watched. Whether they opt for Rashford or another target, the club remains determined to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.
