Arsenal are reportedly considering a loan move for Manchester United winger Marcus Rashford as Gabriel Martinelli edges closer to the exit door at the Emirates.
According to The Independent’s Miguel Delaney, the Gunners could pursue a temporary deal for the England international once Martinelli’s departure is confirmed.
Arsenal have made just one attacking signing this summer, bringing in Christos Tzolis as a replacement for Leandro Trossard on the left flank.
The Greek winger has already chipped in with a couple of assists since arriving, offering an encouraging start to life in north London.
However, Arsenal are keen to add further quality to their left wing options before the transfer window slams shut on September 1.
The club are close to finalising Martinelli’s move to Al-Hilal, which would leave a significant gap in Mikel Arteta’s attacking options heading into the season.
Rashford arrives back at Manchester United this summer after spending last season on loan with Barcelona, where he produced an outstanding campaign in La Liga under their setup.
The 28-year-old registered 14 goals and 15 assists during his time with the Spanish champions, recording 29 goal involvements in total across the campaign.
Despite averaging a goal contribution every 90 minutes, Barcelona opted against making the deal permanent, choosing to sign Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United instead.
Rashford has since returned to United under new head coach Michael Carrick, but his position in the squad remains uncertain given stiff competition on the left wing.
He faces a battle for his place from both Matheus Cunha and Patrick Dorgu at Old Trafford, with central striking options also crowded by the presence of Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, and Joshua Zirkzee.
A loan deal would suit Arsenal financially, as it would avoid a significant transfer fee while allowing them to cover Rashford’s reported £300,000 per week wages directly.
Arsenal had previously targeted Morgan Rogers and Vinicius Junior earlier in the transfer window but were unable to secure either player.
Rashford’s familiarity with the Premier League, having bagged 89 goals and 53 assists in close to 300 top-flight appearances, makes him an immediately attractive option for the reigning English champions.