Newcastle United are reportedly preparing to make a move for Marcus Rashford, with the Magpies ready to offer the England striker Champions League football next season.
The 27-year-old forward is currently on loan at Aston Villa until the end of the campaign.
According to The Sun, Newcastle are confident they can provide Rashford with the perfect platform to revitalise his career.
The club's interest comes as they prepare for their return to Europe's premier competition.
Newcastle United are reportedly preparing to make a move for Marcus Rashford, with the Magpies ready to offer the England striker Champions League football next season
PA
Whilst Barcelona have been mentioned as Rashford's preferred destination, the Spanish giants have not pursued their interest in the 62-cap international.
This has opened the door for Newcastle to make their approach for the Manchester United player.
Newcastle are said to favour a year-long loan arrangement for Rashford, though United would prefer to secure a permanent departure for their academy graduate.
The forward remains under contract at Old Trafford until 2028.
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Marcus Rashford was frozen out by Ruben Amorim at Manchester United before his loan move to Aston VillaPARashford joined Aston Villa on loan in January following a difficult period at United. He last appeared for the Red Devils on 12 December, having fallen out of favour despite scoring in Ruben Amorim's first two matches as manager the previous month.
The forward showed glimpses of his best form at Villa Park, contributing four goals and six assists in 17 appearances.
However, he is reportedly eager to secure Champions League football for next season.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe expects to retain Alexander Isak despite Arsenal's interest in the £160million-rated striker.
Rather than viewing Rashford as a replacement for the 25-year-old Swedish international, Newcastle see him as an ideal rotation option.
The Magpies believe Rashford would complement Isak in their attacking setup, providing depth and quality as they prepare for their Champions League campaign.
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This approach would allow Howe to manage both players' workloads effectively throughout a demanding season.
Newcastle's strategy reflects their ambition to strengthen their squad for European competition whilst maintaining their existing star players.
The prospect of regular rotation could appeal to Rashford as he seeks consistent playing time ahead of the World Cup.
Newcastle's prospects of landing the 27-year-old appear realistic given his limited opportunities to return to United's first team. The forward's desire to impress ahead of the World Cup could make a move to St James' Park particularly attractive.
Newcastle feel Marcus Rashford would be the perfect rotation option with Alexander Isak
PA
The Magpies need to bolster their attacking options ahead of their Champions League campaign. Callum Wilson is attracting interest from Everton and Saudi clubs, though the 33-year-old could remain on Tyneside.
Chelsea's £30million capture of Ipswich striker Liam Delap has removed another potential target from Newcastle's list.
This development makes the pursuit of an experienced player like Rashford, who is desperate to prove himself at the highest level, making him an increasingly logical option for both parties.
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