The fraught relations between Manchester United and FC Barcelona are set to become even more strained after the Spanish giant identified Benjamin Sesko as a target this summer, according to a new report. Rashford’s Return The two clubs have been locked in protracted negotiations over the past few months to try to find a compromise that would see Marcus Rashford stay in Catalonia permanently. The 28-year-old forward spent last season on loan with Barcelona, helping the Blaugrana defend their LaLiga title and reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League with 14 goals and 14 assists in all competitions. Marcus Rashford Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played LaLiga3218893-1,762′ UEFA Champions League11554–579′ Copa del Rey4311–249′ Supercopa20—-32′ Total492614143-2,622′ Source: Transfermarkt. German manager Hansi Flick is understood to have been impressed by the United star, who was content to play a more squad-based role at Camp Nou, and wanted him to be signed permanently, while Rashford himself was desperate to remain as well. However, Barcelona’s hierarchy decided against triggering the £26 million buy option in the deal, instead trying to renegotiate another loan or a much cheaper price – two requests United had no interest in entertaining. Once the World Cup in North America concludes next month, Rashford will make an awkward return to Old Trafford while INEOS search for an alternative buyer for the team’s highest-paid player now that Casemiro has sealed his move to Inter Miami. Sesko In The Crosshairs Barcelona’s refusal to pay the relatively modest fee for Rashford was called into question by their £70m outlay on another English forward, Anthony Gordon, with INEOS likely to have been left scratching their heads at the deal. But this confusion will undoubtedly turn to anger as the Catalan side have now identified Sesko as an option up front, should their ambitious pursuit of Julian Alvarez fail. Barca have tabled an £87m bid for the 26-year-old Argentina international, which was immediately rejected by Atletico Madrid. Bizarrely, Real Madrid then made a bombshell offer of £113m that was also turned down, though sources in the Spanish capital question the legitimacy of the move. Atleti are understood to be demanding £130m for their prized asset, who Barca have identified as their first-choice successor to the departing Robert Lewandowski. However, should they be unable to prise him from the Metropolitano Stadium, attention will be turned to Sesko as one of three alternatives. MARCA reveals sporting director Deco has placed Borussia Dortmund striker Serhou Guirassy, Etta Eyong of Levante, and Sesko on his shortlist. Interestingly, Eyong is a target at Old Trafford to provide competition to the 6’5″ Slovenian frontman, given Joshua Zirkzee is set to return to Italy if a suitable offer arrives. However, United are understood to be prioritising a more experienced option as the Cameroon international is only 22 years old. Final Thoughts Having invested a total sum of £74m to sign Sesko from RB Leipzig last year, it would take a significantly larger offer than this to even make INEOS pick up the phone. And were they to see a Catalan calling code, they may simply hang up immediately. If Barcelona are searching for a more cost-effective option than Alvarez, they will need to shop outside of M16, unless a reversal on Rashford’s future is on their list. Sesko’s red-hot form under Michael Carrick makes him an unobtainable target this summer, as the 22-year-old is primed to explode next season. Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Darragh Fox Darragh is an editor for The Peoples Person who spent three years learning about the Cold War at the University of Sheffield slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about. Amad’s first touch should be officially recognised as the eighth wonder of the world.
United make position on Old Trafford project clear amid uncertainty over Andy Burnham’s mayoral exit – BBC

Manchester United’s position on their multibillion-pound Old Trafford regeneration project has emerged following Andy Burnham’s departure as Greater Manchester mayor. Uncertainty Last week, The Times revealed that United’s bid to construct a new state-of-the-art project could be thrown into “a period of uncertainty” if Burnham were to win the Makerfield by-election and vacate his position as Greater Manchester mayor. In March last year, United announced plans to leave Old Trafford in favour of building a brand new 100,000-seater stadium. The new stadium, which will be the largest in the UK, is set to be built on club-owned land adjacent to Old Trafford. United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has repeatedly stated plans to bestow United with an iconic stadium, which he has branded the “Wembley of the North.” With a new stadium at its heart, the wider Old Trafford regeneration is projected to inject £7.3bn into the UK economy every year, supporting 92,000 new jobs and delivering more than 17,000 homes. Burnham has been a big supporter of the project and as such, The Times explained that some senior figures at United are worried that his departure could stall momentum, given that a new mayor could potentially withhold funding approvals, steer the board towards residential development, or refuse compulsory land acquisition if it becomes necessary. However, according to the BBC, United are confident they can work with whoever becomes mayor. This follows Burnham’s Makerfield by-election win, which means he must step down as Mayor and trigger a fresh election. United’s stance Simon Stone of the BBC writes, “Manchester United expect their new stadium plans to be unaffected by Andy Burnham’s departure as Greater Manchester mayor.” “Multiple sources have told BBC Sport the MDC is legally binding and has been constituted by Parliament, so only the Government can scrap it.” “United feel no matter who the new Mayor is, or which party they come from, their work on a stadium that is likely to cost in excess of £2bn, can continue.” The MDC (Mayoral Development Corporation) is chaired by Lord Sebastian Coe. United are hopeful that a deal with Freightliner for the land necessary to construct the new stadium can be struck this summer. Featured image Christopher Furlong via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
National team left on edge over fitness of United star after his World Cup heroics – report
England are reportedly sweating over the fitness of Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford ahead of the upcoming World Cup clash against Ghana. Impact England kicked off their World Cup campaign earlier this week with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Croatia. Harry Kane broke the deadlock from the penalty spot before Martin Baturina drew his side level with a fantastic strike. Kane scored again to restore England’s lead, this time heading home a superb corner-kick delivery from Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice. The lead was not to last. For the second time in the match, Croatia found an equaliser as Petar Musa pounced on a knockdown ball to restore parity at 2-2. England exploded out of the traps after the break and took the lead in the 47th minute, with Jude Bellingham rounding off a surging run with a superb finish. Rashford came on as a substitute and wrapped up the win with a wonderful goal, making certain that the three points were staying with England. Rashford was named on the bench, with Thomas Tuchel preferring to start Anthony Gordon. The narrative carries an added layer of intrigue, as Rashford enjoyed a loan spell at Barcelona during the 2025/26 campaign. The Blaugrana ultimately declined to sign him permanently, opting instead to acquire Gordon. If this performance is anything to go by, that decision may haunt them. But for now, The Sun reports that there are fears that Rashford may have picked up an injury in the World Cup opener vs. Croatia. Rashford concerns The newspaper claims, “Marcus Rashford is an injury worry ahead of England’s next game against Ghana.” “The Manchester United winger starred as a substitute in the 4-2 win over Croatia on Wednesday – he also grabbed the fourth goal – but complained of a tight hamstring afterwards.” It’s understood that Rashford did not feature in a practice game on Thursday with the rest of the substitutes against Kansas City. England beat the MLS outfit 5-1. The Sun say that Rashford suffered pain in the hamstring/glute area after helping to sink Croatia. England and Tuchel will certainly be hoping that it’s not too serious and Rashford makes a timely return before the meeting with Ghana. Featured image Michael Steele via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Latest Top Stories… Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
Ex-United star Edinson Cavani makes huge career decision after agreeing to tear up Boca Juniors deal – report

Former Manchester United striker Edinson Cavani has made a huge decision on his career after agreeing to part ways with Boca Juniors. United stint Cavani joined United on a free transfer in October 2020, putting pen to paper on a one-year deal with the option of a second year. He was handed the iconic number 7 shirt, which has previously been worn by the likes of David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo. While there were concerns about his age and injury record, Cavani brought much-needed experience and leadership to the dressing room. He enjoyed a strong debut campaign at Old Trafford, scoring his first goal for the club in November during a 3-1 victory over Everton. Some of his other notable moments in a United shirt include a sensational brace in the 3-2 comeback win against Southampton, a strike in the record-equalling 9-0 trouncing of Southampton and leading United to the Europa League final. He also converted a memorable 40-yard lob against Fulham, which was the first goal at Old Trafford in front of the fans since the COVID-19 pandemic. Cavani’s stay was extended by an additional year but his minutes drastically reduced due to the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo and fitness issues. He eventually left at the end of the 2021/22 campaign upon the expiry of his contract. After leaving United, the Uruguayan joined Valencia. He only stayed there for one season before departing for Boca Juniors. Now, it is being reported that his time at Boca has come to an end. Mutual separation Ole reports that a tough battle with persistent back injuries is the main issue behind Cavani and Boca’s decision to go their separate ways. It has been a nightmare campaign for Cavani at Boca, with the veteran forward managing just two appearances in recent months. Plagued by severe lumbago and a herniated disc, he has struggled to make any impact. Surgery earlier in the season was meant to be the solution, but it ultimately proved ineffective. But, despite the challenge he has endured, the 39-year-old has no plans to retire. Cavani’s inner circle have emphasised that his next move must be to an environment that caters more effectively to his fitness needs. A representative said of the ex-United striker, “He feels good and he is looking forward to it. With this cancellation, it is not that he is retiring.” Cavani is the second former United player to leave Boca over the past few weeks, joining Ander Herrera, who also confirmed his departure. The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
Watch Cunha’s brace for Brazil v Haiti
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Germany’s Rudiger recognises Amad’s quality
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United and Arsenal lock horns in transfer battle for 22-goal Brazilian assassin – report
A striker signing is not being ruled out at Manchester United. After spending £73.7 million last summer to sign Benjamin Sesko, one of the finest up-and-coming strikers Europe has to offer, it does not make sense to spend significant sums on the position again. That is especially true given how Sesko has proven he is worthy of leading the Red Devils’ attack. Why sign a striker? However, there are reasons why a striker signing is necessary. Rasmus Hojlund has finally been sold, with Napoli triggering the £38 million agreement to turn his loan into a permanent transfer. There is also talk that Joshua Zirkzee might finally seal a move away from Old Trafford. The Dutch striker has been linked with a departure over the last two transfer windows, and he may now get that move. With that double striker exit, a signing up top suddenly makes sense. Interestingly, it is now being reported that INEOS could look to bring the second-deadliest Premier League striker to Old Trafford. Erling Haaland may have won the Premier League Golden Boot, but as he chased it, Brentford’s Brazilian striker gave him a real run for his money. The Manchester City star’s 27 league goals were only four more than Thiago’s, and considering the vast difference in quality between the clubs they play for, you begin to appreciate just what the Bees striker achieved. Apart from Haaland, Igor was the best Premier League striker last season. Igor Thiago: Man United and Arsenal links The 20-time English champions want him, but as INEOS weighs up the conditions of striking a deal, a worrying report has emerged. According to Rtie Sporte, United have been joined by champions Arsenal in the race for the Samba star. On that, they report: “The 24-year-old centre-forward is seen as one of the main options to reinforce the offensive sector of the team managed by Mikel Arteta. The Spaniard considers the Brazilian a player capable of raising the technical level of the Gunners’ attack. “Manchester United is also monitoring the player’s situation and remains interested in signing him.” Summer 2025 deja vu Keen to inject goals into their attack, if true, an Arsenal-United battle for Thiago would be fierce, and it would give fans a sense of déjà vu from last summer, when the two sides went toe-to-toe for Viktor Gyokeres. United fans will be hoping they come out on top this time, and that Matheus Cunha, Ederson and Casemiro can sway their compatriot towards Manchester. Haaland at City, Thiago and Sesko at United, the 2026-27 Premier League Golden Boot may change destinations, but it may not leave Manchester. Featured image George Wood via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Daniel Onguko Dan is a writer with The Peoples Person, an avid Manchester United fan whose passion for the Red Devils evolved into writing about them. He was introduced to United back in 2008, and his love for the club has continued to grow ever since. Like every other United fan, he believes the club will soon return to its rightful place and strives to reflect that belief in his writing. While he has also written about other Premier League sides, including Arsenal for Just Arsenal and The Arsenal Analysis Blogspot, Dan lives and breathes Manchester United.











