Manchester United get their FA Cup defence underway this Sunday with a daunting trip to Arsenal and, yet again, much of the pre-match talk surrounds Marcus Rashford.
After nine years with the United senior side, Rashford's time in Manchester appears to be coming to an end.
He has been including in the matchday squad only once since mid-December, and an interview with the forward shortly before Christmas saw him suggest he was ready for a "new challenge."
The weeks since that interview have seen some back-and-forth in reporting on Rashford, who seems open to the idea of staying. However, reports of a falling out with head coach Ruben Amorim suggest that the decision may not be entirely down to Rashford.
27-year-old Rashford has been linked with several major European sides in recent weeks, with AC Milan the most prominent team among the persistent rumours. Borussia Dortmund and Napoli have also been mentioned as prospective destinations.
However, as United prepare to face Arsenal in the FA Cup, Rashford has now been linked with a surprise move to the Gunners, a Premier League rival.
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Reports: Arsenal make contact over Marcus Rashford move
As the Italian press continue to track the chances of Marcus Rashford signing for either AC Milan or Napoli, one reporter has delivered a bombshell update.
Italian football journalist Massimo Marianella appeared on Sky Italia to discuss the saga, and claimed that Arsenal have made contact with Manchester United to enquire about Marcus Rashford's availability.
It would be a bombshell move between two long-standing Premier League rivals, and would mark the first direct transfer between the clubs in seven years.
Arsenal reportedly value Rashford at £25 million, which may be on the lower end of how much United would hope to recoup for an academy product with three years remaining on his contract.
Intriguingly, head coach Ruben Amorim confirmed that Rashford will be available for selection for this weekend's FA Cup clash after missing the draw at Anfield, supposedly through illness.
It remains to be seen if Rashford will get a run-out this weekend but it is now not out of the question that the Emirates could become a more regular playing ground for him in the weeks and months to come.
Arsenal host Manchester United in the FA Cup this Sunday, with kick-off at 3pm. The game is live on BBC One.
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