Former West Ham star Joe Cole has speculated that Arsenal could pull off a surprise move for Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford before the January transfer window closes, provided the financial terms align.
Rashford, 27, has expressed his desire for a fresh start away from Manchester United, the club he joined as a seven-year-old.
Following a stellar 2022/23 season where he scored 30 goals in 56 games, the England international has experienced a significant dip in form, managing only 11 goals in the Premier League since.
With United open to offers, Rashford’s high wages—reportedly £325,000-a-week—pose a challenge. However, several top clubs, including AC Milan, Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund, and Newcastle, have shown interest.
Arsenal has also emerged as a potential destination as Rashford’s future remains uncertain in the final days of the transfer window.
On the Dressing Room podcast, Joe Cole proposed that West Ham could provide the environment Rashford needs to regain his best form. Cole drew comparisons to Jesse Lingard’s successful loan spell at the club during the second half of the 2020/21 season.
Cole suggested that strong man-management would be crucial to revitalizing Rashford’s career, saying, “If I’m West Ham manager, I’d tell Marcus, ‘What do you need? Let’s make it happen!’ It worked with Jesse Lingard, and it can work with Rashford too.”
While West Ham remains a potential option, Cole entertained the idea of Rashford moving to Arsenal. Addressing concerns about United allowing a rival to sign the forward, Cole remarked, “If the financial package is right, I think United would consider it. They likely don’t see themselves competing directly with Arsenal this season for a loan deal.”
Rashford, known for his impact as a left-sided forward, has struggled when deployed in a central role. Cole emphasized the importance of rallying support around Rashford, both on and off the pitch, to help him rediscover his confidence and form.
As the transfer deadline approaches, Rashford’s next move remains a hot topic, with fans and pundits eagerly anticipating whether Arsenal, West Ham, or another club will secure his signature.