Italian Giants Clear Path for Rashford as Talks Intensify Amid Interest from Other European Clubs
Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford appears to be on the brink of a move to AC Milan, as the Rossoneri make room in their squad following the departure of Noah Okafor.
Okafor’s Exit Paves the Way
Okafor has officially left AC Milan, joining RB Leipzig on loan until the end of the season for a fee of €1.5 million, with an option to make the move permanent for €25 million. Speaking at Milan’s Linate Airport before his departure, Okafor expressed gratitude to the club and fans.
“I go now to Leipzig. Sempre Milan. You never know in life, maybe you see me again, but for me, it was the best option,” Okafor said. “Thanks for everything in Milan. Thanks to the Tifosi, it was great, and it will always hold a place in my heart.”
With Okafor’s departure, Milan now has an opening to sign a replacement winger, with Rashford emerging as their primary target.
Milan Leading the Race for Rashford
Milan is reportedly in advanced discussions to sign Marcus Rashford, fending off competition from Barcelona, Juventus, and Borussia Dortmund. The potential deal would likely be structured as a loan for the remainder of the season, with an option to make the move permanent.
On Friday, Milan head coach Sergio Conceição was coy when asked about Rashford, stating, “Rashford is a good player like many others. Some are on the market, others are not. Let’s see what happens.”
Adding fuel to the speculation, Milan director and former player Zlatan Ibrahimović praised Rashford ahead of Milan’s Serie A match against Cagliari. “I played with him when he was young; now he’s more of a man and a great player,” Zlatan said. “Milan is a great club, everyone wants to play here. We haven’t spoken to him yet, but let’s see if we do.”
Rashford’s Desire for a New Challenge
Rashford’s potential move comes after his candid interview with journalist Henry Winter, where he admitted he’s ready for a “new challenge.”
“For me, personally, I think I’m ready for the next steps,” Rashford said after revisiting his primary school, Button Lane. “When I leave, there will be no hard feelings. I’ve seen how other players have left in the past, and I don’t want to be that person. I’ll make a statement, and it will be from me.”
The 26-year-old reflected on his career so far, adding, “I’m halfway through my career. I’ve had nine years in the Premier League, and it’s taught me a lot. I have no regrets, and I won’t have any going forward.”
United’s Response
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has taken a firm stance following Rashford’s interview, excluding him from the squad in recent games, including Sunday’s FA Cup victory over Arsenal.
With Milan intensifying their efforts and Rashford keen on a fresh start, all signs point to a potential deal that could see the England international donning the famous Rossoneri colors in the coming weeks.
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