Manchester United face a more complicated Marcus Rashford exit after the £40million release clause in his contract expired.
The clause allowed interested clubs to sign Rashford for a fixed price. Manchester City and Liverpool could not activate it.
Any potential buyer must now negotiate a fee directly with United, according to The Athletic’s report relayed by Sky Sports.
United could still demand around £40m. However, the change removes certainty for Rashford and any club considering a move.
Barcelona rejected their €30m option after his productive loan spell. They instead spent heavily on Anthony Gordon, closing Rashford’s preferred route back to Spain.
Carrick could give Rashford another chance
Rashford remains under contract until 2028 and will return after England’s World Cup campaign.
The 28-year-old has reportedly rejected several offers, including proposals worth more than his current United salary. He only wants to leave for a leading club.
Michael Carrick remains open to assessing Rashford during pre-season. The forward has not played for United since December 2024, but Ruben Amorim managed the club when he left on loan.
As Read Man Utd reported on Thursday, Rashford has no interest in moving to Turkey and will return for talks with Carrick.
United still prefer a permanent sale and have considered Crysencio Summerville as a possible replacement. The club’s position may soften if no suitable buyer emerges.
The expired clause gives United more control over the fee, but it could also reduce interest. Rashford’s wages and limited list of preferred destinations already make negotiations difficult.
Carrick must now decide whether to reintegrate the academy graduate or continue pushing for an exit.
