Manchester United plot move to sign 26-year-old forward with £68 million release clause set to be active in 2025: Reports

Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing Eberechi Eze next summer. They could explore a deal for the Crystal Palace star amidst doubts about Marcus Rashford's future at the club.

Rashford has come under immense criticism due to his performances since the start of last season. He scored just eight goals and provided six assists in 43 games across competitions last time out. He's started this campaign in an underwhelming fashion as well, failing to register a goal contribution in four games so far.

As per Daily Express, Manchester United are now looking at Eze as a potential signing next summer. The Englishman primarily operates as an attacking midfielder but can also play on the left wing. The Red Devils also have captain Bruno Fernandes in the No. 10 position, so Eze is likely to replace Rashford.

Eze, 26, has been excellent for Crystal Palace since arriving from Queens Park Rangers in 2020. He's scored 28 goals and provided 17 assists in 128 games. Known for his flair, dribbling skills, and creativity, the England international has scored two goals in four games this season as well.

Eze has a release clause worth £68 million which will get re-activated next summer. He was linked with multiple clubs this summer as well, including Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur.

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Former Premier League attacker advises Marcus Rashford to leave Manchester United

Marcus Rashford came through the Red Devils' academy and has registered 131 goals and 68 assists in 406 games so far. However, he has arguably not lived up to the expectations fans and pundits had from him based on his potential. He struggled last season and hasn't been at his best this season as well.

Rashford wasn't called up to England's squad for the ongoing international break and pundit Chris Waddle understands why, as he said (via Mirror);

“I can see why Lee Carsley has left Marcus Rashford out of the England squad, he doesn’t do enough. On his game, he’s a terrific player, as we saw two years ago when he scored over 30 goals, he was on fire that season – that’s what you want out of him.

“Since then, we haven’t seen that. Last season he didn’t do it, and he hasn’t so far this season either. I don’t know whether it’s a lack of desire or passion, it just feels as if he’s not even on the pitch sometimes. He doesn’t look like he cares. He hasn’t been there over the last season and the start of this season."

Waddle believes Rashford and Manchester United should part ways as it will be best for both parties:

“I think Manchester United should have sold him two years ago after that electric season, that was the right time – he needs a move away. He’s been at United his entire life and sometimes players just get comfortable – I think that’s what it is. Erik ten Hag will be thinking, ‘I know what this kid is capable of’ but he just doesn’t do it.”

Rashford will now hope to bounce back after the international break when Manchester United face Southampton on Saturday, September 14.