Rashford transfer latest: Striker blow as European giant rejects Man Utd loan terms

AC Milan are reportedly poised to reject Manchester United's terms for a loan move involving Marcus Rashford, as both clubs work to reach an agreement before the January transfer window closes.

The 27-year-old forward, who has expressed his desire for "a new challenge," has not featured for United since December 14, missing six consecutive matches.

Manager Ruben Amorim has stated that Rashford’s exclusion from recent squads is purely down to "selection reasons," but the player’s camp is actively seeking an exit.

A loan move with an obligation to buy in the summer appears the most likely outcome.

Representatives for Rashford have been in Italy this week holding discussions with Milan, who are keen on a deal.

Serie A side Como and Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund have also shown interest, while Rashford has received lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia.

However, the England international is determined to remain in one of Europe’s top-five leagues to boost his chances of reclaiming a spot in Gareth Southgate’s squad.

A potential move to Milan, however, has hit a stumbling block. The Times reports that the Italian giants are unwilling to pay more than half of Rashford’s £325,000-a-week salary.

Milan’s highest earner, Alvaro Morata, is on just £150,000 per week, making United’s demands a significant obstacle.

While Rashford would prefer a move to La Liga giants Barcelona, their ongoing financial difficulties make a transfer unlikely.

This has led the United academy graduate to explore alternative destinations where he can rediscover the form that earned him a lucrative contract in 2023.

Having spent two decades at Old Trafford and made 426 senior appearances, Rashford has been candid about his desire to leave amicably.

"When I leave, it's going to be 'no hard feelings,'" he recently stated. "You're not going to have any negative comments from me about United. That’s me as a person.

"If I know that a situation is already bad, I’m not going to make it worse. I’ve seen how other players have left in the past, and I don’t want to be that person. When I leave, I’ll make a statement, and it will be from me."

With the transfer window set to close on Monday, February 3, Milan must decide whether to meet United’s demands or walk away from the negotiating table.

Rashford’s camp will be working tirelessly to secure a move that benefits all parties as the clock ticks down.