Arsenal backed to sign Marcus Rashford after source’s reveal – pundit
Noel Whelan has claimed Champions League qualification could be key to Arsenal completing a potential deal for Man United star Marcus Rashford.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 24-year-old “holds the cards” in contract negotiations with the Old Trafford club.
Football Insider revealed on Wednesday (5 October) that Arsenal are keeping close tabs on Rashford with his current Man United deal set to expire at the end of the season.
The Red Devils have the option to extend his stay a further 12 months but are yet to do so, throwing his long-term future into doubt.
Rashford has been revitalised under new manager Erik ten Hag, scoring five goals in eight games – including a brace against Arsenal last month.
The Gunners are top of the Premier League after eight games – while Man United sit sixth.
When asked if Champions League football could tempt Rashford to the Emirates Stadium, he told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “Yeah, I think so.
“When you’ve got a player with their contract running down, I call tell you, without a doubt, they hold the cards.
“He’s been in the goals and he seems to have found his form and that belief in his ability. He had looked like he lost that for a period of about 18 months.
“But he’s coming back, and he’s coming back at the right time.
“He’s in such a strong place now to negotiate. Either a new contract with Man United or signing a free contract somewhere else.
“I don’t know where he fits in at Arsenal with the likes of Jesus, Saka, and Martinelli all playing well. But if they can get Champions League football, it’s all about strength in depth.
“Ten Hag has put a lot of faith in him, but these negotiations are in his hands.”
In other news, medical insider claims Arsenal are taking “one last roll of the dice” with Emile Smith Rowe.