Atletico Madrid interested in signing “fantastic” Manchester United forward

Atleti are interested in a Manchester United player. (REUTERS/Scott Heppell)

Manchester United’s progress this season has been clear to see, but there is still a lingering sense that Ruben Amorim’s side are not quite clicking in the final third.

Bryan Mbeumo has been the most consistent threat, yet his output of seven goals and one assist across all competitions underlines the lack of a truly ruthless finisher.

Bruno Fernandes continues to carry the creative burden with goals and seven assists of his own, while Casemiro has chipped in unexpectedly from midfield. Summer arrivals Benjamin Šeško and Matheus Cunha, however, have struggled to make a decisive impact, managing just two goals apiece.

Ironically, United’s most productive forward this season has been someone not even at Old Trafford.

Marcus Rashford’s loan spell at Barcelona has revived his reputation, with the England international contributing seven goals and 11 assists in Spain. That form has not gone unnoticed elsewhere.

Atletico Madrid are reportedly lining up a move for Marcus Rashford after being impressed by his performances in La Liga.

The 27-year-old has earned glowing reviews during his time at Barcelona, with head coach Hansi Flick describing him as “fantastic”. The Catalan club also hold an option to make the deal permanent for around €30 million, but Rashford’s long-term future remains far from settled.

According to Fichajes, Atletico are already positioning themselves to strike at the end of the season. Diego Simeone is keen to add more cutting edge to his attack and sees Rashford as an ideal fit for his high-intensity, direct style.

Despite his strong numbers, Rashford has slipped down the pecking order at Barcelona following Raphinha’s return to full fitness, and the Englishman is understood to be reluctant to accept a reduced role. Atletico believe that uncertainty could work in their favour.

Crucially, the Madrid club can offer Rashford something he currently lacks at Camp Nou: the promise of regular starts. Reports also claim Simeone has personally asked the club to explore the deal, a development that would be welcomed by Manchester United as they weigh up their own plans.

A return to Old Trafford now looks highly unlikely, and Barcelona’s ongoing financial constraints continue to cast doubt over a permanent move there. What is clear, though, is that Rashford’s resurgence has ensured he will not be short of suitors next summer — with Atletico Madrid emerging as a very serious option.

Barnaby Lane is a highly experienced sports writer who has written for The Times, FourFourTwo Magazine, Sports Illustrated, TalkSPORT, and Business Insider.

Over the years, he's had the pleasure of interviewing some of the biggest names in world sport, including Usain Bolt, Rafael Nadal, Christian Pulisic, and more.