Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has dismissed reports suggesting that he is demanding a £500,000-a-week contract from the club. The 25-year-old, who has been in superb form this season with 27 goals in all competitions, will enter the final year of his contract with United this summer. This means that he could potentially leave on a free transfer if a new deal is not agreed. However, reports on Thursday claimed that Rashford is holding out for a new contract worth in excess of £500,000 a week once bonuses are factored in. United are said to be reluctant to offer new deals until the club’s potential takeover is settled.
Rashford has branded the reports as ‘nonsense’ and claims he has been ‘respectful’ to United during negotiations. Responding to the speculation on Twitter, Rashford wrote: ‘Just before this one starts to do the rounds! It’s complete nonsense. The club and myself have been respectful to one another, and that’s how it will remain. My focus is purely on finishing as well as possible in the league and winning trophies.’
Rashford also wrote on Instagram: ‘Another non-story flying around about my advisers and me making demands. It’s complete nonsense! My aim and the club’s aims are to finish as high as possible in the league and try and win a cup or two.’
The England international has been one of United’s standout performers this season, scoring crucial goals in the Premier League, Europa League, and FA Cup. He has formed a formidable partnership with Portuguese superstar Bruno Fernandes, with the duo combining for 35 goals in all competitions this season.
Rashford’s current contract with United sees him earn around £200,000 a week, which is still a considerable amount of money. However, given his performances this season, it is not surprising that he would want to be rewarded with a new and improved contract. United, on the other hand, are said to be cautious about offering new deals until the club’s ownership situation is resolved.
The club is currently the subject of a potential takeover bid from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). The PIF, which is chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has been linked with a £3.5 billion takeover of the club. However, the bid has been met with opposition from some United fans and human rights groups due to concerns over Saudi Arabia’s human rights record.
United’s current owners, the Glazer family, have also faced criticism from fans for their handling of the club. The Glazers have been accused of prioritising profits over on-field success, with United struggling to challenge for major honours in recent years.
Despite this, Rashford has remained committed to the club and has been vocal about his desire to help United return to the top of English football. He has also been heavily involved in charitable work off the pitch, particularly in the area of child poverty.
Rashford’s stance on his contract negotiations is a positive sign for United fans, who will be hoping that the club can tie down their star forward to a new deal soon. With Rashford and Fernandes leading the way, United have a real chance of challenging for major honours in the coming years.