Man United May Have Already Found Their “New No.9” for Next Season
Marcus Rashford could be with Man United as their temporary No.9 while they search for a long-term replacement, says Dean Jones.
According to journalist Dean Jones, Man United may have already found their “No.9 option” for the upcoming 2023/24 season in Marcus Rashford.
Manchester United recently unveiled their first summer signing, Mason Mount, as manager Erik ten Hag aims to inject fresh energy into the midfield.
Reports link Rasmus Hojlund of Atalanta with a move to Old Trafford, as Ten Hag reportedly desires the 20-year-old Danish starlet.
Manchester United’s pursuit of a new striker continues, with the potential signing of Andre Onana from Inter Milan on the horizon.
However, Inter Milan’s £50 million valuation for Onana may pose a challenge.
Still, the club’s ongoing takeover situation and Daniel Levy’s reluctance to sell to a Premier League rival make that move unlikely.
What did Dean Jones say about Man United and Marcus Rashford?
In an exclusive interview with GIVEMESPORT, transfer insider Jones revealed that United could deploy Rashford as their lone centre-forward at the start of the upcoming season.
“Obviously, the season starts before the transfer window ends. It could be for the first few weeks of the season that Marcus Rashford is actually playing as Man United’s number nine because they have other players that could fill out wide on the left, obviously Jadon Sancho or whoever they choose, and it gives them a bit more time to go and buy the right striker.”
Can Marcus Rashford play as a striker this season?
In the meantime, Rashford may be required to play out of his position on the left wing if a new striker is not secured.
Using Rashford as a center-forward, Manchester United would have more time to select their ideal candidate for long-term care.
However, the club faces budgetary restrictions and concerns over Financial Fair Play regulations, making the decision even more challenging, especially if Atalanta demands a significant fee for Hojlund.
Additionally, Anthony Martial’s injury struggles further limit the options through the middle. Rashford enjoyed a successful season, scoring 30 goals, including 11 as a striker. Nonetheless, he prefers playing on the left flank.
Manchester United possesses a wealth of options on the wing, notably Jadon Sancho, which may leave them with little choice but to deploy Rashford as their primary No.9.
Supporters at the Theatre of Dreams might become accustomed to seeing Rashford leading the line if the club fails to secure a suitable striker during the transfer window.
