Marcus Rashford to Tottenham: O’Rourke updates on summer transfer

Marcus Rashford to Tottenham: O’Rourke updates on summer transfer.

Tottenham Hotspur are set to face a major challenge in their pursuit of long-term target Marcus Rashford, sources have revealed to Football Insider. The 27-year-old forward, currently on loan at Aston Villa from Manchester United, is highly admired by key decision-makers at Spurs, who are eager to bring him to North London ahead of the 2025-26 season.

However, any potential deal is expected to be complicated. Tottenham will likely need to win the Europa League and secure Champions League qualification if they are to have any realistic chance of signing Rashford. The England international has made it clear that playing in Europe’s top-tier competition is a key factor in his next career move.

Rashford has enjoyed a solid campaign in 2024-25, appearing in 41 matches across all competitions, with 29 of those being starts. He has contributed 11 goals and 9 assists in 2,440 minutes of action. Since arriving at Villa in January, he has made 17 appearances and added 4 goals and 6 assists to his tally. Despite this productivity, his season has been cut short due to a hamstring injury. He is not expected to play again this season but is hopeful of returning for England’s World Cup qualifiers in June.

As part of his loan deal with Villa, the Midlands club have the option to make the move permanent this summer for a fee of £40 million. Villa may be tempted to activate that clause, especially with Rashford settling in well and delivering consistent performances before his injury.

Tottenham, meanwhile, are not the only club monitoring Rashford’s situation. Barcelona are said to be his preferred destination should he leave Manchester United permanently. However, significant doubts remain over whether the Spanish giants have the financial capacity to fund such a transfer, especially with Rashford still under contract at Old Trafford until June 2028 and earning a lucrative salary.

For Spurs, the biggest hurdle remains their status in European competitions. Sources suggest that unless Tottenham secure a top-four finish in the Premier League or win the Europa League — where they are currently in the semi-finals and set to face Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt — they will struggle to convince Rashford to join.

Off the pitch, Spurs are also dealing with uncertainty around the managerial position. Ange Postecoglou, despite guiding the club to the Europa League semi-finals, is reportedly on borrowed time. Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has emerged as a candidate for the potential vacancy, though the Cherries are keen to retain him and have offered a new contract to block Spurs’ approach, as revealed by Football Insider on April 18.

Tottenham’s hopes of a transformative summer now rest heavily on their European results. A Europa League trophy and the lure of Champions League football could turn the tide in their favor in the pursuit of Marcus Rashford.