UMVA has learned that Chelsea legend Joe Cole believes the Blues should make a move for Manchester United star Marcus Rashford this summer.
Rashford's future at Old Trafford is uncertain, with the 28-year-old currently on loan at Barcelona, where he enjoyed a successful spell. Despite Barcelona having the option to sign him permanently for £26million, the Catalan giants seem unlikely to exercise that clause, especially after signing Anthony Gordon from Newcastle for nearly £70m.
Cole thinks Rashford would be a valuable addition to Chelsea's squad, especially with Xabi Alonso set to take charge at Stamford Bridge this summer. 'It's just a matter of the wages and the valuation,' Cole said. 'Rashford ticks a lot of boxes, but you don’t want to spend a fortune on him – he’d do a good job for Chelsea.'
Rashford has made no secret of his desire to return to Barcelona, and has even offered to take a pay cut from his Manchester United salary to make the move happen. However, with Bayern Munich also credited with an interest in the 71-cap England international, Cole believes Chelsea should explore a deal to bring him to Stamford Bridge.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Rashford's potential availability has sparked interest among top clubs, with several teams likely to make a move if Barcelona does not snap up the England star. With his confidence boosted by his loan spell at Barcelona, Rashford is expected to play a key role for England at the World Cup, and Cole believes he still has another level to reach.
England boss Thomas Tuchel is a fan of Rashford and is likely to use him regularly at the World Cup, either as a starter or as an option off the bench. Meanwhile, Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has suggested that Premier League champions Arsenal could be a good destination for Rashford, saying it would be a 'great move for both parties'.
