Arsenal plot to offer Man Utd star ‘escape’ amid ongoing defender ‘pursuit’

While Manchester United’s battle for the top four is put on hold for a couple of weeks due to the international break, there’s been no slowing down when it comes to the usual transfer speculation that surrounds the Red Devils.

With defensive reinforcements seemingly top of the agenda at Old Trafford, and the possibility of a high-profile exit being mooted from some quarters, there’s plenty of gossip doing the rounds.

Here’s a roundup of all of the latest Manchester United transfer news....

Gomez in demand

United are set to rival Inter Milan in the pursuit of Sergio Gomez, according to Gazzetta Dello Sport, as relayed by Sport Witness.

The Barcelona academy graduate, who is currently on the books at Anderlecht, is attracting attention from a number of high-profile European sides after registering five goals and 11 assists from left-back this season.

As well as featuring regularly in defence, the 21-year-old is also capable of playing further forward, and would offer a versatile option on the left flank.

United in particular are said to be eyeing cover and competition for Luke Shaw and Alex Telles this summer, and could look to make a move for Gomez as he continues to impress in Belgium.

But the Red Devils will have to fend off interest from Inter if they are to reach an agreement, with the Italian club in the market for reinforcements out wide.

United monitoring Akanji

From one defender to another, United are also keeping a close eye on Manuel Akanji’s contract situation at Borussia Dortmund.

As per a report from Bild, via the Mirror, the Red Devils are ready to pounce after the Swiss centre-back rejected Dortmund’s latest offer of a contract extension.

The 26-year-old’s current deal in Germany expires in 2023, but Dortmund are eager to tie him down to a long-term agreement.

Akanji himself is seemingly less keen, however, and it is suggested that United could benefit from the ongoing uncertainty by making a move for the player this summer.

A deal could be struck for as little as £25 million.

Arsenal eye Rashford

Arsenal could look to make an ambitious move for United forward Marcus Rashford, according to a report from the Mirror.

The Gunners are in the market for a new striker after losing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, and said to be willing to offer the England international an “escape” from his career at Old Trafford.

The England international has stagnated somewhat in recent times, and has been limited to just 10 starts in the Premier League this season.

Rashford’s contract with United his due to expire next summer.