Manchester United have begun negotiations with West Ham United over a potential £50 million transfer for winger Crysencio Summerville, but the deal is contingent on the sale of Marcus Rashford. The news comes as United seek to bolster their attacking options, particularly on the left side, following a frustrating start to the summer transfer window.
United had previously backed away from deals for Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes due to cost concerns, prompting a reassessment of their transfer strategy. While midfield remains a priority, the club is also actively pursuing a winger, identifying Summerville as a prime target following his performances for Leeds United. The Red Devils are hoping to capitalise on West Ham’s recent relegation from the Premier League to secure the Netherlands international.
Journalist Ben Jacobs confirmed the opening of talks between the two clubs, describing the discussions as “exploratory” at this stage, but indicating Summerville is “high in” United’s thinking. The transfer is directly linked to whether United can move on Rashford, who has been the subject of interest from Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Tottenham Hotspur.
Rashford’s potential move to Barcelona has stalled, with the Spanish club unwilling to meet the previously agreed €30 million (£26 million) release clause. While Rashford is reportedly still keen on a move to the Camp Nou, United have been offering the England international to other clubs in an attempt to generate a sale. Club officials, however, are preparing for the possibility of Rashford remaining at Old Trafford, with coaching staff briefed to reintegrate him into the first-team squad.
Despite this preparation, United’s preference remains selling Rashford, primarily to remove his substantial wages from the club’s payroll. Casemiro’s departure has left Rashford as the highest-paid player at United, and his sale would provide significant financial flexibility for further squad rebuilding. United have also been linked with Crystal Palace’s Ismaila Sarr as an alternative option on the wing, with director of football Jason Wilcox known to be an admirer of the Senegalese international.
Ultimately, the pursuit of Summerville is inextricably linked to Rashford’s future, and a resolution in that regard could pave the way for the Dutch winger’s arrival at Old Trafford.
