“Garnacho can leave for Chelsea if he wants to, we already have a perfect replacement for him. Our new signing-to-be is an upgrade to Rashford because he is younger and he’s ready to do hard things. We don’t need lazy players in our club anymore” – This is according to Sir Jim Ratcliffe as he bids Garnacho farewell as Manchester United are close to finalizing a “Superstar” who’s a Rashford Upgrade.

With just over two weeks remaining in the transfer window, Ruben Amorim has yet to make any signings to reshape his Manchester United squad since taking charge in November.

There is no doubt that reinforcements are necessary for the team to move in the right direction under the 39-year-old, especially given their disappointing 12th-place position in the Premier League after 21 matches.

Fans have grown increasingly frustrated, which is understandable given United’s historic success in the North West, particularly as clubs like Nottingham Forest and AFC Bournemouth are now competing for European qualification.

United’s Transfer Struggles and Potential Departures

A significant part of this frustration stems from poor recruitment, with several recent signings failing to justify their hefty price tags. However, before the club can invest in new talent, they must facilitate player departures, with multiple first-team members rumored to be on their way out.

Among those linked with a move away is £86 million winger Antony, who has attracted interest from Real Betis and Olympiacos. Meanwhile, young Argentine forward Alejandro Garnacho is also on Napoli’s radar, as the Italian club prepares for the possible departure of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to PSG.

Garnacho’s exit appears increasingly likely after he recently fell out of favor under Amorim. However, United are reportedly demanding around £60 million for the youngster.

Additionally, Marcus Rashford’s future at Old Trafford remains uncertain following tensions with Amorim, which have seen him excluded from the manager’s plans. Borussia Dortmund, AC Milan, and West Ham have all been linked with potential moves for the 27-year-old, either on a temporary or permanent basis.

If all three attackers were to leave, United would be severely short of options in the final third, making it crucial for the club’s hierarchy to secure replacements before the transfer window closes.

The Ideal Replacement for Rashford

Of the three potential departures, Rashford’s exit would arguably be the most difficult for fans to accept, given his deep connection with the club.

The academy graduate has made over 400 appearances for Manchester United, scoring more than 130 goals and producing numerous memorable moments. However, no player is bigger than the club, and Amorim must be trusted to rebuild the squad in his vision.

A sale could pave the way for Lille striker Jonathan David to make the switch to Old Trafford, providing Amorim with the attacking reinforcements he desires.

David has been linked with a move to United this month, with Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur also reportedly interested. However, due to his contract expiring in the summer, he could be available for a bargain fee in this window or via a pre-contract agreement for a free transfer in June.

How Jonathan David Compares to Marcus Rashford in 2024/25

Statistics (Per 90)	Jonathan David	Marcus Rashford
Games Played	17	15
Goals & Assists	12	5
Shots on Target	1	0.8
Pass Accuracy	82%	74%
Take-On Success	52%	23%
Aerial Duels Won	0.6	0.4
Fouls Won	1.3	0.6

(Stats via FBref)

The Lille forward, described as a “superstar” by teammate Jonathan Osorio, has significantly outperformed Rashford this season, scoring more goals, hitting the target more frequently, and boasting a higher pass accuracy.

David’s superior take-on success rate and overall technical ability make him a well-rounded attacking option, potentially solving United’s issues in the final third.

A Crucial Signing Before the Deadline

If Manchester United secure David before the window closes, they would be adding a player with the potential to transform their attacking play. His skill set could be instrumental in improving the club’s fortunes in the seasons ahead.

However, with multiple clubs interested in his signature, United must act swiftly to land the Canadian international—who could serve as the perfect replacement for both Rashford and Garnacho should they depart.