For Marcus Rashford, January could be the month that defines the rest of his career.
The Manchester United winger has publicly discussed his desire for a “new challenge” after spending his life at Old Trafford and it looks increasingly likely that his wish will come true before the end of the winter window. A loan move seems more likely than a permanent sale given the current situation.
The 27-year-old is understood to have an extensive list of suitors. While his standards have declined over the past 18 months, Rashford has hit 30 goals in the 2022/23 season, having scored more than 20 goals in two of the three seasons before that.
Prospective buyers are banking on this consistency and subversive quality being rediscovered away from the harsh glare of Manchester.
With that in mind, here are Rashford's most likely destinations – ranked, of course.
Reports revealed this Rashford has already refused Several ways from the cash-rich Saudi Professional League. With his £300,000-a-week wage a stumbling block for most clubs eyeing a permanent deal, many sides in the Middle East will be able to match and raise these wage demands.
The fact that Rashford rejected the move suggests his opinion will not change, even as desperation potentially grows later in the January window. Witnessing the struggles endured by former international team-mate Jordan Henderson may be enough to dissuade him.
Perhaps Manchester United's No.10 can tease the prospect of joining West Ham. The Irons lack the stature of many of their other rivals, with a disappointing start to the season under Julen Lopetegui after failing to improve their standing.
but, West Ham are believed to be in the mix for Rashfordeven if they realize that they are unlikely to be the most convincing pursuer. The arrival of new manager Graham Potter could be a factor in the Hammers' favour, as well as the fact that Rashford will not have to leave the comfort of English football.
Rashford will see how his loan move to West Ham has helped former team-mate Jesse Lingard rediscover his lethal streak in 2021. Could it offer him the same safe haven?
Marcus Rashford lines up in Barcelona?
You would imagine that the Catalan giants would not be able to orchestrate such a move, as they cannot even sign the players they have due to ongoing financial mismanagement (Dani Olmo, Pau Victor, we're looking at you, pals).
But the noise coming out of Spain indicates that Barcelona will do everything in their power to land Rashford *check notes* the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companies – Whether they need it or not, given the presence of Lamine Yamal and Rafinha on the wings, remains to be seen.
Surprise contenders to secure Rashford's loan signing It is the Italian team Como, which advanced to the Italian League for the first time in 21 years before the current season. They are currently battling relegation under coach Cesc Fabregas, with the club remaining far from certain heading into the second half of the season.
Rashford will certainly be a big fish in a small pond in Lombardy, especially after his former teammate Raphael Varane retired last September after joining Como in the summer. It will provide guaranteed game time and lower expectations.
However, performing at a high level on a weaker team presents its own challenge. Como is averaging more than a goal per game in Serie A and Rashford will face unique pressure to get them to safety.
Manchester United are highly unlikely to loan Rashford to a direct opponent – they may have learned their lesson after sending Jadon Sancho to Chelsea, where the winger is now thriving – but the Red Devils and Tottenham do share a fierce rivalry.
Tottenham are looking for reinforcements this winter, and Rashford is one of them Those being considered. Spurs are looking to bolster their attack – even if their defense is in desperate need of fresh blood – and Ange Postecoglou would be an attractive coach for most of their attacking players.
Rashford, who has scored six goals in 17 meetings with Tottenham, will be given plenty of attacking freedom in north London, although he will face strong competition from Son Heung-min for a starting place on his preferred left wing.
Rashford may have heard horror stories about Antonio Conte from friends and teammates, but he may have the chance to experience the Italian brutality first-hand during the remainder of the season. Napoli, who led to the top of Serie A under the former Chelsea and Tottenham coach, are in the hunt for his signature.
Their interest in Rashford could depend on the future of Georgian star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Which arouses the interest of Manchester United and a group of other European clubs. Napoli are finally open to selling the difficult winger and could theoretically use Rashford as a bargaining chip in a deal with the Red Devils.
However, the fear of playing under a defensive-minded coach could be a deciding factor in Rashford agreeing to any such switch.
Juventus' lack of experience in wide attacking areas proved to be a problem for Thiago Motta during his first season in Turin. The Old Lady have been consistent defensively this season but have lacked flair, consistency and flair at the other end of the pitch.
Naturally, they are looking to address this particular issue in January. With Rashford among their goals. Juventus' current attacking options fail to inspire, with even star striker Dusan Vlahovic struggling to impress the entire Allianz Stadium crowd.
Juve certainly do not lack the status Rashford would want in his first move away from Old Trafford and he would be the Bianconeri's immediate first choice.
Borussia Dortmund often provides a haven for the Englishman. Jude Bellingham and Jadon Sancho have flourished at Signal Iduna Park, with the latter finding his form upon his return there last season on loan from Manchester United. Even within his current team, Jimmy Gittens is having a fierce season.
Such tales could serve as inspiration for Rashford, who will work under exciting young coach Nuri Sahin. Sancho rebuilt his reputation with the Bundesliga giants last season and reached… UEFA Champions League final, allowing him to make his way to west London last summer.
Dortmund, a club that prioritizes attacking endeavors and boasts one of the best fanbases in football, could provide the escape Rashford needs as he returns to elite level. Those high lines in the Bundesliga will be in trouble.
It would be quicker to name Italian teams who do not want to sign Rashford this winter, with Milan leading the race. They were the first side made The official approach of Manchester Unitedas the recent Supercoppa champions look to revitalize themselves under new coach Sergio Conceicao.
Rashford's representatives have reportedly discussed a potential move to Milan after traveling to Italy, with a loan deal possibly including an option to buy depending on wage demands.
Rashford will meet plenty of familiar faces at Milan, with English trio Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Tammy Abraham and Fikayo Tomori representing the Rossoneri. This would certainly help in the settlement process.
There will be intense competition for a left winger position with Rafael Leao, but joining the seven-time European champions could be an offer too good to refuse.
