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Transfer rumours: Arsenal eye Rashford as replacement for Martinelli
31st August, 2026 02:03 PM
Arsenal are reportedly exploring a late deal to sign Manchester United winger Marcus Rashford. According to reports by Sky Sports and the Independent, the Gunners are considering a loan approach for the England international as they seek a replacement for Gabriel Martinelli.
With less than 48 hours remaining before the transfer window closes, Premier League clubs are racing against time to finalise their squads. Mikel Arteta’s side appears eager to test Manchester United’s resolve regarding the 28-year-old forward.
The move comes as Martinelli edges closer to an exit, with the Brazilian winger in advanced talks to join Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal in a deal worth over £55 million. Martinelli was left out of Arsenal’s opening-day squad and is understood to be open to the move to the Middle East, with the transfer expected to be completed shortly.
Rashford returns
Rashford spent the 2025/26 season on loan at Barcelona, but the Catalan club opted against triggering their buyout clause, choosing instead to sign Anthony Gordon.
Returning to Old Trafford this summer, Rashford has already been reintegrated into United’s first-team squad under head coach Michael Carrick, taking on a new shirt number and featuring in both of United’s opening league fixtures.
PHOTO/https://www.facebook.com/manchesterunited
He delivered a standout performance—despite not scoring—in United’s emphatic 5–2 victory over Ipswich Town.
Addressing Rashford’s return to the setup, Carrick extolled the player’s versatility across the front line.
“Marcus has come back fantastically well,” Carrick said. “He is enjoying his football; he looks fit, sharp, strong, and ready to play. I’ve been delighted with him since he came back. He can play through the middle and has done so. I wouldn’t say it’s his number-one position, but he can do it, and we’ve got forwards that give us flexibility right across that front line.”
