Man Utd edge closer to Marcus Rashford replacement as £50m transfer decision made

Manchester United's prospects of securing a replacement for Marcus Rashford could improve if West Ham are able to complete a deal of its own. Rashford's ambition of a permanent transfer to Barcelona has fallen through, leaving his immediate future uncertain.

With neither party enthusiastic about continuing their partnership, and another loan to Barcelona off the table, the England international will be seeking pastures new this summer. As a long-term successor, United are eyeing West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville. The 24-year-old is currently at the World Cup, where he has been catching the eye for the Netherlands.

For that transaction to proceed, the relegated Hammers would need to identify a replacement of their own. That has edged closer after the London outfit registered an interest in Brighton's Amario Cozier-Duberry.

The 21-year-old has just completed a season-long loan at Bolton Wanderers and played a pivotal role in helping the Trotters secure promotion via the League One play-offs. A switch to the Championship would represent the natural progression, with the Hammers understood to be frontrunners for his services, according to The Athletic.

EXPRESS SPORT ON FB! Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page

If West Ham can secure Cozier-Duberry, it would pave the way for United's potential pursuit of Summerville, who is valued at around £50million, though his price tag could increase if he continues to shine for his nation in North America. There is understood to be no release clause in his Hammers contract.

Summerville has already bagged two goals and an assist in his opening two matches, both off the bench. He could add to that tally on Friday, when Ronald Koeman's side face Group F whipping boys Tunisia, who have already been eliminated following heavy losses to Sweden and Japan.

United aren't the only major club tracking Summerville, with Paris Saint-Germain also reportedly monitoring his situation. The European champions may approve Bradley Barcola's exit, leaving them requiring a new left-sided attacker.

As for Rashford, United have prevented him from joining Manchester City or Liverpool, who have previously expressed interest, while Arsenal have distanced themselves from a potential deal.

Tottenham remain keen, but Rashford would prefer another European switch. He will cost approximately £40m, but the greater obstacle could be his £325,000-per-week wages.

For now, Rashford will be concentrated on earning a place in England's starting XI for the Group L finale against Panama. The 28-year-old came off the bench late on during the dour draw with Ghana.

Get the latest World Cup news straight to your inbox by signing up to our Make Football Great Again newsletter now!