United prepared to replace outcast with 25-yo “dribbling wizard” as Euro giants agree to complete £26m transfer – report

Manchester United’s attack is firing on all cylinders under Michael Carrick, having scored eight goals in three Premier League games. It is believed that Carrick would like to further bolster United’s attack if he is given the role on a permanent basis in the summer. The United interim head coach is thought to be open to welcoming back Marcus Rashford, who is currently on loan at Barcelona, to Carrington. Marcus Rashford to continue at Barcelona However, Rashford is enjoying life under Hansi Flick at Barcelona. The England international has been directly involved in 23 goals across all competitions for the Catalans. Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming Barca are prepared to trigger the buy option clause and secure his services permanently for £26 million. Appearances20 Started12 Minutes per game59 Total minutes played1183 Team of the week1 Goals4 Expected goals (xG)5.48 Scoring frequency (in minutes)296min Goals per game0.2 Total shots2.8 Shots on target per game1.0 Assists6 Expected assists (xA)3.47 Touches41.2 Big chances created5 Key passes1.6 As such, whoever is at the helm at United in the summer would have to look for a new left-winger to replace Rashford at Old Trafford. Manchester United draw up two-man shortlist to replace Rashford According to Teamtalk, United are keeping an eye on two wingers who are capable of bringing “a new edge and greater creativity” to the side. It is claimed RB Leipzig speedster Yan Diomande could be the first option United explore as a replacement. The report states: “Other clubs who have enquired about the RB Leipzig winger have come away with the understanding that United are very much in the picture and could lead the race for his signature when the summer window opens.” The 19-year-old Ivorian could cost as much as €100m, having firmly established himself as one of the Bundesliga’s best wingers. United are also interested in Everton’s dribbling wizard Iliman Ndiaye. The Africa Cup of Nations winner’s versatility and Premier League experience are greatly admired in Manchester. Ndiaye has been directly involved in six Premier League goals so far this term. The 25-year-old forward’s contract on Merseyside runs until the summer of 2029. As such, Everton are in a strong position to rebuff United’s approach. Ndiaye’s current market value is £39m, but the Toffees are likely to demand a club-record fee for his sale. Featured image Alex Burstow 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 Vishal Singh Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets, including North Star Network. Vishal has a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Delhi University. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Vishal also manages a leading MUFC fan page, The Red Devils, on Facebook with over a million likes. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!