Rashford 'steps up' bid to leave Man Utd by contacting with sports agency

Marcus Rashford has intensified efforts to leave Manchester United following his latest snub by the club.

The 27-year-old forward recently admitted he is "ready for a new challenge" after spending his entire career at Old Trafford.

According to reports, Rashford is now in talks with leading sports agency Stellar in a bid to secure a move during the January transfer window.

Rashford is currently represented by his brother, Dwaine Maynard, but is said to be seeking a larger team to facilitate his exit.

Stellar, notably, orchestrated Gareth Bale’s record-breaking £86 million transfer to Real Madrid in 2013.

Rashford’s frustrations were further compounded on Monday night when he was left on the bench during Manchester United’s 2-0 defeat to Newcastle.

Although restored to the squad after an 18-day absence, Rashford did not feature, even as manager Rúben Amorim opted to bring on Alejandro Garnacho and Antony in a bid to salvage the game.

Before the match, Amorim explained Rashford’s inclusion in the squad was primarily due to a lack of available players, with Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte suspended.

However, the decision not to use Rashford during the match has reportedly fueled his determination to leave.

United are said to be open to selling Rashford in the current window, particularly if it allows Amorim to make a key signing.

Paris Saint-Germain wing-back Nuno Mendes has emerged as a prime target for Amorim, who previously worked with Mendes at Sporting Lisbon.

Mendes, 22, is reportedly eager to reunite with his former manager and could be available for around £45 million, as his contract with PSG has 18 months remaining. However, United would need to offload players to fund such a move.

Rashford’s potential departure would be financially advantageous for United, as his homegrown status would significantly aid the club in meeting Profit and Sustainability Rules.

When asked about the possibility of new signings this week, Amorim admitted: "We don’t have that possibility in January. It’s not the case that I can spend a lot of money changing the team."

Amorim is said to view the left wing-back position as a top priority, with Diogo Dalot currently being deployed out of position to fill the role.

Meanwhile, reports suggest midfielder Casemiro, 32, could attract renewed interest from Saudi Arabia this month, adding another potential twist to United’s January transfer activity.