Manchester United have been advised against selling forward Marcus Rashford to Arsenal, despite the club’s ongoing desire to reduce their wage bill. The England international is currently expected to return for pre-season training at Old Trafford after his loan spell at Barcelona ended without a permanent transfer. Barcelona declined to meet the reported £26 million fee to sign Rashford permanently.

Rashford’s weekly wage of £325,000 is considered unsustainable within Manchester United’s current salary structure, prompting the club to seek a permanent move for the 25-year-old. Arsenal has been linked as a potential suitor for the forward, who recently scored in England’s 4-2 World Cup win over Croatia.

However, former Manchester United striker Louis Saha has publicly cautioned against the club granting Arsenal an opportunity to acquire Rashford. Saha argued that selling a valuable player to a direct Premier League competitor could be detrimental to United’s title ambitions. He referenced the example of Robin van Persie’s transfer from Arsenal to United, which contributed significantly to United’s league triumph.

“Selling Rashford to Arsenal is a complete no-go,” Saha said. “I wouldn’t give any strength to the reigning Premier League champions. Rashford is a real danger for anyone trying to compete in the league.” He also highlighted Rashford’s impact during his loan at Barcelona, where the forward contributed 28 goal involvements across 49 appearances, helping the Spanish side secure the La Liga title. Nevertheless, Barcelona’s sporting director Deco opted against pursuing a permanent deal.

Despite Saha’s strong stance, Manchester United appear determined to offload Rashford amid a broader strategy to balance the wage structure, though they are reportedly intent on ensuring any transfer is definitive. Saha emphasized the need for United to sever ties with the player, warning that maintaining Rashford within the league, particularly at a rival club, could empower their competition.

As pre-season approaches, the future of Rashford remains uncertain, with Manchester United balancing financial considerations against the potential competitive implications of his next destination.