Bayern Munich have officially ruled out a summer move for Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, putting an end to speculation linking the England international with a switch to the Allianz Arena.
The 28-year-old is currently on loan at Barcelona, where he has proven to be a useful option for Hansi Flick's side. The Catalan club hold an option to make the move permanent for £26 million, but reports suggest they are reluctant to meet that price tag.
Instead, Bayern have set their sights on Newcastle United's Anthony Gordon as their primary attacking target. The 23-year-old winger—who can also play through the middle—fits the profile of the versatile forward the German champions are seeking. However, he won't come cheap: Newcastle are expected to demand around £80 million for his services. Talks have already begun, with Gordon's German agent meeting Bayern's head of sport, Max Eberl, for an initial round of discussions.
Rashford had been floated as a more affordable alternative to Gordon, but respected journalist Christian Falk has poured cold water on that idea. Speaking exclusively to CFBayern Insider, Falk stated: "It is NOT TRUE that Bayern could turn their attention to Marcus Rashford if a deal for Anthony Gordon falls through. FC Bayern have a list of options—it's not just Gordon. He is the player they would like to have. However, Rashford is not on this list."
The Manchester United academy graduate fell out of favor under Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford, and his long-term future appears to lie away from the club. However, Michael Carrick—who has done an impressive job since taking charge at Middlesbrough—recently suggested no final decision has been made on Rashford's future, hinting that the forward could still have a role to play next season.
While Rashford certainly fits the bill as a versatile attacker capable of playing on either flank or as a striker, Bayern have made it clear: he is not part of their plans for the summer window.
