Marcus Rashford‘s future at Man United is rarely out of the headlines, yet Tottenham were not among the clubs most supporters expected to enter the conversation.
The England international has spent almost two decades with United after joining the club’s academy as a youngster, developing into one of the Premier League’s most recognisable forwards.
Since making his unforgettable senior debut with two goals against FC Midtjylland in February 2016, Rashford has scored well over 130 goals for United in all competitions, won the Europa League, FA Cup and League Cup, and established himself as a regular for England at major tournaments.
However, Rashford’s career has also been defined by periods of inconsistency.
His outstanding 22/23 campaign, when he scored 30 goals in all competitions, demonstrated the level he can reach when full of confidence.
However, injuries, changes of manager and fluctuating form have prevented him from consistently matching those numbers in subsequent seasons, leading to constant speculation surrounding his long-term future at Old Trafford.
Despite that, clubs across Europe remain aware that a player in his prime right now still possesses the physicality, experience and quality to transform an attack if he’s used correctly, like Barcelona found out last season.
That potential could appeal to Roberto De Zerbi.
At Brighton, he elevated Kaoru Mitoma into one of the Premier League’s most dangerous wide forwards, while also helping players such as Pascal Gross and Joao Pedro produce some of the best football of their careers.
Spurs are also in need of a winger and have held extensive talks with Man City over a deal for Savinho, much like they did last summer, but the saga, akin to 2025, is dragging on a little bit.
Rashford would bring something different.
His experience of competing at the highest level, combined with his versatility across all three forward positions, would give Tottenham another proven match-winner capable of changing games individually.
United, though, may have little desire to strengthen a direct Premier League rival unless they receive an attractive financial package, while Rashford’s salary remains one of the biggest obstacles facing any interested club.
That has not stopped fresh speculation emerging.
Tottenham tipped to sign Marcus Rashford as price tag revealed
Speaking on talkSPORT, transfer correspondent Alex Crook suggested Tottenham could become serious contenders for Rashford.
“I think if he goes anywhere in London, I’m keeping an eye on Tottenham,” said Crook.
“I could see that deal happening, Roberto De Zerbi believing he could get the best out of Rashford.
“I think probably an offer of £30m will be accepted by Man United, but you have to factor in he’s on around £325,000-per-week at Old Trafford, and doesn’t seem too willing to take a pay cut.”
Crook’s comments point towards a fascinating possibility.
Tottenham undoubtedly have a manager capable of rebuilding confidence in talented attackers, while a fee of around £30 million would represent a relatively modest investment for a player with Rashford’s pedigree.
The wages, however, appear far more problematic.
Unless Rashford softens his current stance on salary or Tottenham decide to break their wage structure, any negotiations would likely prove extremely difficult despite De Zerbi’s reported admiration.
For now, it remains a developing story.
Yet with the transfer window entering its decisive weeks, Tottenham have unexpectedly emerged as a club worth watching should Rashford’s long association with United finally come to an end.
