“I can’t allow Rashford to leave for now. He’ll just have to remain on the bench. I don’t want a situation where once he leaves he’ll start to perform well like Sancho at Chelsea” – This is according to Sir Jim Ratcliffe as Manchester United have reportedly put a stop to any potential transfer involving Marcus Rashford, as Sir Jim Ratcliffe aims to prevent an embarrassing situation.

Manchester United are reportedly determined to prevent Marcus Rashford from securing a move to a Premier League rival, despite the forward’s eagerness to leave Old Trafford this month. Reports indicate that Rashford’s representatives met with club officials today to discuss his future.

The England international has not featured for United since being substituted in their Europa League win over Viktoria Plzen, with his last Premier League appearance coming in the home defeat against Nottingham Forest on December 7. Manager Ruben Amorim has left Rashford out of six of United’s last seven matchday squads, with his absences against Liverpool and Arsenal attributed to illness.

Several top European clubs have expressed interest in a potential loan move for Rashford, but according to the Daily Star, United are set on blocking a transfer to another English club. This stance would rule out potential moves to Chelsea, Tottenham, or West Ham. Additionally, Premier League regulations state that Chelsea would need to make Jadon Sancho’s loan permanent before acquiring Rashford on a temporary basis.

It is believed that co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is leading efforts to prevent Rashford from strengthening a domestic rival. Having already witnessed Sancho’s resurgence at Chelsea after his summer loan, United are wary of a similar situation unfolding with Rashford. Furthermore, the club is reluctant to cover a portion of Rashford’s £350,000 weekly wages while he plays for a competitor, especially if United remain in the hunt for European qualification.

Although Rashford has drawn interest from MLS and Saudi Pro League clubs, his preference is to continue playing in Europe. AC Milan are reportedly leading the chase for his signature, with Borussia Dortmund and Monaco also monitoring the situation.

When asked about Rashford’s future, Amorim remained tight-lipped, emphasizing his focus on United’s upcoming Premier League clash against Southampton. With the Red Devils struggling against lower-ranked teams this season, Amorim made it clear that his priority is securing a much-needed victory.