Latest developments
- AC Milan are strongly linked with a move for Marcus Rashford.
- Rashford has fallen out of favour at United.
- His high wages could prove to be a stumbling block in sealing a transfer.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3.5/5): Exit expected to be complicated
AC Milan are seen as one of the possible destinations for Marcus Rashford with odds of around 4/1. The Serie A giants are keen on signing the Englishman but his high wages at Manchester United could prove to be a stumbling block and force the two clubs to explore other possibilities.
The story comes from the The Times, who are well-versed in financial issues and have a solid reputation.
Value (3/5): Even a loan move isn't appealing
The Englishman is most likely to leave this month in a loan deal – an attractive prospect for one of the most high profile forwards in Europe. However, his weekly wages, believed to be around £325,000, has caused some concerns at San Siro.
Rashford's arrival may disrupt their wage structure as Milan's current highest earner is Alvaro Morata, who takes home a relatively meagre £150,000 per week.
Suitability (3.5/5): Potential talisman
Milan have a number of talented forwards, including Rafael Leao and Morata, but they really lack an elite attacker that is capable of turning the game on his own.
The 27-year-old United star has the necessary pace and ferocious ball-striking skills to do that, playing either as a left-sided winger or a second striker in Sergio Conceicao's 4-4-2 system.
Upgrade? (4/5): More reliable than Leao
The Portuguese winger is one of the most exciting talents in Europe, but he has struggled to consistently step up for Milan this season. Under previous manager Paulo Fonseca, he even lost his once-guaranteed spot in the starting lineup.
Rashford himself has struggled for form this term, but he can be trusted more than Leao to deliver on a more consistent basis.
Logic (3/5): Find compromise
Serie A may provide Rashford with an ideal platform to get away from scrutiny of English media and rediscover his confidence. However, the player and both clubs would have to find a compromise on the financial front.
The report suggests that any deal would “hinge on what proportion of his wages United are prepared to pay, as well as the size of the fee if there is an obligation to buy.”
Whisper+ verdict: 17/25
As far as Milan are concerned, The Times' report may disappoint some fans. Still, it is too early in the winter window to make any final judgements, and things could quickly change if Rashford continues to remain out of favour at Old Trafford.
