Liverpool shortlist Manchester United Star as striker search expands | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Striker Search Takes Unexpected Turn as Rashford Emerges as Surprise Option

As Liverpool seek to bolster their attacking line ahead of the 2025/26 season, a name few expected has surfaced. According to a report by The Daily Mail, Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has been “floated as an idea” by figures at Anfield should their move for Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak fall through.

While on paper such a transfer would send shockwaves through English football, the complexities surrounding it – from club rivalry to personal preferences – render it an intriguing yet improbable proposition.

Big Ambitions, Bigger Obstacles

Liverpool are not standing still. With six new signings already under Arne Slot, including Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez, the reigning Premier League champions are building from a position of strength. Having toppled Manchester City last season, the Reds are looking to evolve their squad further, specifically in the number nine role.

Newcastle’s Alexander Isak is clearly the first-choice target. As The Daily Mail states, “Liverpool have made an approach for Newcastle United star Alexander Isak in a £120million deal.” However, the Merseyside club are not putting all their trust in one pursuit. Sporting director Richard Hughes and Slot are reportedly assessing multiple forwards, casting a wide net in preparation for summer negotiations.

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Rashford’s Curious Situation

One of the most unexpected names on Liverpool’s shortlist is that of Marcus Rashford. Still just 27 and entering the peak of his career, Rashford’s situation at Old Trafford has soured. According to The Daily Mail, “Rashford is one of the forwards that Liverpool have on their list should they be unable to sign Isak from Newcastle.”

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Adding further intrigue, The Athletic have disclosed that the £325,000-a-week forward has been described as a “shock Premier League name” at Anfield. This isn’t merely idle gossip. While Liverpool remain cautious, the idea of Rashford leading the line under Arne Slot, with service from players like Wirtz and Frimpong, paints a mouthwatering image on Merseyside.

However, complications abound. Not only are Manchester United unlikely to sell to their fiercest rivals, but TEAMtalk reports that “Rashford’s dream is to play for Barcelona.” After a failed January switch due to financial restrictions, the Catalan giants remain in contact with the England international. He spent the latter half of the previous season on loan at Aston Villa, suggesting that both club and player are ready for a fresh start.

Alternatives to Isak and Rashford

Liverpool’s striker search extends beyond just Isak and Rashford. The club is reportedly monitoring Hugo Ekitike of Eintracht Frankfurt, Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa and Brentford’s Yoane Wissa. Napoli’s Victor Osimhen and Real Madrid’s Rodrygo have also been listed among the potential options.

This wide-ranging list indicates a careful strategy: Liverpool want quality but are not going to be held hostage by negotiation games. They aim to secure a forward who suits Slot’s dynamic style without overpaying or compromising the squad’s harmony.

Man Utd’s Dilemma

Meanwhile, the situation at Old Trafford grows increasingly unstable. New manager Ruben Amorim faces a massive rebuild after United’s dismal 15th-place finish last season. Only Matheus Cunha, of their three new summer signings, is expected to feature in Amorim’s regular XI.

With Rashford seemingly out of favour, and his wages a burden, United may be forced to consider all options. But a sale to Liverpool? That would require seismic shifts behind the scenes.

As one insider put it, “The report has revealed that the £325,000-a-week (The Athletic) Man Utd forward’s name has been ‘floated as an idea’ at Liverpool, adding that he is a ‘shock Premier League name’.”

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

“Marcus Rashford to Liverpool?” That’s the kind of rumour that makes fans spit out their morning brew. For many Reds, the idea of a United player donning the Liverbird is nothing short of unthinkable, even if the name is as big as Rashford’s.

The rivalry aside, there’s undeniable quality in the England international. His pace, directness and experience at the highest level would make him a serious threat under Arne Slot. But there are serious doubts. Firstly, £325,000-a-week is steep for someone who didn’t start regularly at United last term and had to find form at Aston Villa.

Then there’s the question of intent. If Rashford really has his heart set on Barcelona, is he the kind of player who’ll give 100% at Anfield? Fans want players who live and breathe Liverpool, not those who see the club as a stepping stone or compromise.

Still, if Isak proves unattainable and the club believe Rashford fits Slot’s system, it would be fascinating to see how the move plays out. Football has a way of surprising even the most seasoned observers. But for now, scepticism reigns.