Manchester United opens contract talks with Summerville! United rejects Barcelona loan extension, Rashford may drag on until late August

The Red Devils have set their sights on West Ham's Dutch winger Crysencio Summerville. Italian transfer reporter Nicolò Schira goes so far as to assert that talks have already commenced, with the proposed contract offering Summerville a five-year term plus a 12-month extension clause.

Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, meanwhile, states that United's interest in Summerville is genuine, and they inquired about his situation and price during discussions with West Ham regarding Matheus Fernandes. However, this is still at an exploratory stage, as any left-wing signing by United is conditional on first securing the sale of Marcus Rashford.

If they do pursue a left winger, Summerville would be a key target, as United have already dropped out of the race for Leipzig's Jan Diomandé. German media claim Liverpool are the frontrunners, having submitted a bid of £87 million plus £8 million in add-ons, which was rejected. Romano reveals that Leipzig want €120 million (£104 million), so the £87 million offer falls far short. At that price, United are not considering competing.

ESPN reports that United are prepared to reject any Barcelona offer to extend Rashford's loan, aiming instead for a permanent transfer this summer. The club has enlisted agents to market him to other clubs in order to increase options for the 28-year-old England winger.

On Wednesday evening, Rashford scored a goal to seal a 4-2 win over Croatia in a World Cup match for England, a development that surely delighted United. England manager Thomas Tuchel praised Rashford after the match: "When he starts, it's difficult for us to gain a decisive advantage, but he keeps working hard, just with a long spell of bad luck. We spoke on Tuesday, and I told him I'm extremely satisfied with his performances over the past 16 days, both in training and in the fighting spirit he shows in matches."

Tuchel added: "He commits fully to every meeting and can quickly translate discussions into actual tactical actions, achieving our set tactical goals. He has been extremely humble and respectful in his competition with Anthony [Gordon], so his current situation is quite good. I'm very pleased that he has resolved the issue of a long period without a decisive impact, and I hope he can maintain this level of performance."

Rashford's form has attracted interest from Saudi Pro League clubs. Fourth-placed Al-Khaleej and newly promoted Al-Diriyah have already contacted United about a potential transfer. However, Rashford is not interested in either club and would not agree to join. Saudi giants Al-Hilal are also looking for wingers, but their first choice is Barcelona's Raphinha.

Rashford's goal has always been to return to Barcelona, where he enjoyed his time. But the La Liga champions have already signed Anthony Gordon, and '90min' reports that Barcelona would only pursue Rashford if he actively facilitates the move. It is claimed that Rashford will delay until the end of the summer window in late August to demonstrate his determination. Barcelona believes that if Rashford rejects all other transfer options, United will eventually agree to a second loan.

A return to Manchester United is considered an unlikely outcome. Laurie Whitwell of 'The Athletic' says: "I think it's unlikely now. United want to completely cut ties with him. I know that during Solskjær's tenure, Rashford played under Carrick, who is someone who thinks holistically and doesn't damage relationships. I believe he could fully work with Rashford, but is that really what the club wants, and is it what Rashford himself wants? The situation has developed to a point where it can no longer continue like this."

Transfer expert Ben Jacobs adds: "United's plan is to get rid of him, and that's probably the most accurate description. Wages and age are the two major issues—a weekly salary of over £300,000 and being 28 years old. United can only invest in new signings by selling him."