Marcus Rashford may not be joining AC Milan after all, with the Italian giants plotting a move for Manchester City defender Kyle Walker.
Pep Guardiola announced on Saturday evening that the experienced right-back, 34, wants to retire from The Etihad this month. And with Walker looking to pursue a move abroad, Milan are believed to be in pole position to sign the England star.
While it remains unclear whether or not Walker will get his wish, a deal for the City defender – like Rashford – may not be easy due to the player's salary.
But Milan have a more pressing problem: they only have one spot left in their squad for a non-EU player, meaning they would be unable to sign both Rashford and Walker.
That leaves the 19-time Italian champion with a huge decision to make. Their interest in Rashford is no secret and they have held discussions with the player's representatives over a possible loan deal.
Manchester United have already given Rashford the green light to request a transfer this month, after the player expressed his desire for a new challenge last month. Barcelona are among his other suitors, while Napoli have also emerged as contenders for his signature in the wake of Kvicha Kvaratskhelia's transfer request.
Walker was talked out of leaving City 18 months ago amid interest from Bayern Munich. But Guardiola's comments suggest a divorce is on the way this time.
“It's not easy for me to say, but Kyle is not here because two days ago he asked to explore the possibility of playing abroad,” the Catalan coach said after City's 8-0 win over Salford. “He asked about the Treble, when Bayern wanted it, but the offer was not good enough. For that reason, I prefer to play against other players who are working on this.”
“Kyle went to Txiki Begiristain. Maybe I'm wrong, but I'm pretty convinced that you shouldn't keep anyone who doesn't want to be here. Kyle asked to explore. That doesn't mean it's going to happen, you never know.
“I respect him a lot because I am more than grateful to him. He has been here for us for many years. He has been important for the national team, but he said: 'I want to explore it, in my mind and in my heart I want exploring.' .I don't know what's going to happen.”
Comments