Sir Jim Ratcliffe blocks Marcus Rashford to Arsenal transfer as star seeks Man Utd exit

Marcus Rashford remains determined to find a way out of Manchester United before the summer transfer window shuts but won't be allowed to join clubs like Arsenal or Tottenham. Instead, the forward may well be forced to seek opportunities overseas once again. His chances of staying in the Premier League appear increasingly remote.

Rashford has returned to pre-season training at Carrington following his summer break after the World Cup. He intends to hold discussions with manager Michael Carrick once the squad returns from its commitments in Dublin. Yet the England international's immediate future remains uncertain and far from straightforward. Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is eager to remove Rashford from the club's wage bill. However, he has no intention of selling the forward to fierce rivals Arsenal, Liverpool or Manchester City.

Loan deals with the likes of Chelsea, Aston Villa and Tottenham have also been dismissed out of hand. The concern is that should Rashford help any of these sides secure a Champions League berth this coming season, it would prove deeply embarrassing for those at the top at United.

It is understood Rashford would rather secure a permanent move and continue rebuilding his career elsewhere. He retains the option of running down the remaining 24 months of his United deal and departing Old Trafford on a free transfer in 2028.

Alternatively, he could utilise next season to showcase his abilities in the hope of landing a coveted move in 2027 - provided a suitable suitor emerges.

The 28-year-old believes the relationship with his hometown club has become irreparably damaged. And he is acutely aware that time remains in the summer window to thrash out a mutually beneficial arrangement with another club.

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Rashford had been keen to transform his loan spell at Barcelona into a permanent arrangement, but the Catalan club turned down the opportunity to sign him for £24m, choosing to pursue Anthony Gordon instead.

The England winger eventually joined the La Liga champions for £69m, including add-ons, and signed a five-year contract.

Meanwhile, United are weighing up whether to open negotiations with Club Brugge over a potential £30m move for left-back Joaquin Seys.

Having been quoted too high a price for England and Newcastle defender Lewis Hall, United could now shift their focus towards Seys as an alternative option.