Manchester United are prepared to lower their asking price for Marcus Rashford as they step up efforts to sell the England international and fund a move for West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville.
Rashford’s future at Old Trafford remains uncertain after Barcelona opted against activating their £26 million purchase option following his season-long loan spell in Spain.
The 28-year-old enjoyed an impressive campaign at Camp Nou, contributing 28 goals and assists despite not always being a guaranteed starter. Rashford had hoped to secure a permanent move to the Catalan giants and had already agreed personal terms, but Barcelona’s decision to prioritise the signing of Anthony Gordon effectively ended those plans.
The England forward is now expected to return to Manchester once his World Cup duties are complete, although the Red Devils remain determined to move him on permanently.
Recent reports revealed the existence of a £40 million release clause in Rashford’s contract that can be activated by most clubs, with the exception of Premier League rivals Liverpool and Manchester City.
However, Manchester United are reportedly willing to accept less than that figure if it helps accelerate a deal and removes Rashford’s £325,000-per-week salary from the wage bill.
The club’s desire to offload the forward is linked directly to their summer transfer plans.
United are keen to strengthen the left side of their attack, but any move for a replacement is likely to depend on Rashford’s departure creating both financial flexibility and space within the squad.
One player firmly on their radar is West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville.
The Netherlands international has emerged as a leading target after impressing despite the Hammers’ relegation to the Championship. Summerville further boosted his reputation by scoring in the Netherlands’ opening World Cup match, attracting attention from several Premier League clubs.
Manchester United have already made enquiries about the 24-year-old during discussions involving West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes.
However, they are not alone in the race.
Tottenham Hotspur are also monitoring Summerville’s situation and could make a move if their pursuit of Manchester City winger Savinho fails to materialise.
That potential competition has increased the urgency for United, who are eager to complete key outgoing transfers before launching major bids of their own.
Summerville fits the profile of player the club are targeting under their revised recruitment strategy.
At 24, he falls within the preferred age bracket and already possesses significant Premier League experience. His pace, direct style and attacking versatility have made him one of the most highly-rated wide players available this summer.
The Dutch winger has also been described as “dangerously quick” and is viewed as a player capable of adding much-needed energy and creativity to United’s attack.
With Matheus Cunha and Patrick Dorgu already providing options on the left, United believe Summerville would add valuable competition without disrupting the balance of the squad.
For now, though, everything appears to hinge on Rashford.
Until Manchester United can find a buyer for one of their highest earners, any serious move for Summerville is likely to remain on hold.
As the transfer window gathers pace, Rashford’s next destination could determine whether United land one of their priority attacking targets.
