Media Talk Africa: Latest Headlines in Politics, Business, Sports, and More

Fenerbahçe manager José Mourinho is reportedly prepared to bide his time in pursuit of Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, even as the player eyes a potential move to Barcelona. According to a report by Turkish news outlet Hürriyet, Mourinho is seeking a reunion with the 27-year-old England international, whom he coached during his tenure at Old Trafford between 2016 and 2018. However, the £40 million valuation placed on Rashford by Manchester United could complicate negotiations, prompting the Turkish club to adopt a patient approach until later in the transfer window.

Rashford, whose contract with United runs until 2028, spent the latter half of the 2023–24 season on loan at Aston Villa. With United manager Erik ten Hag excluding him from the club’s preseason squad, a permanent departure from Manchester appears increasingly likely. Barcelona has emerged as Rashford’s preferred destination, but financial constraints at the Spanish club may create an opening for Fenerbahçe to reignite talks. Mourinho’s side is said to be closely monitoring the situation, hoping to secure a reduced fee or favorable payment terms by August.

During Mourinho’s time at United, Rashford made 125 appearances under the Portuguese manager, contributing 28 goals and 20 assists. Their prior working relationship adds intrigue to the transfer saga, though Fenerbahçe’s current financial limitations remain a significant hurdle. The Super Lig club, which last won the Turkish league title in 2014, is navigating strict Financial Fair Play regulations, making a £40 million outlay challenging without player sales or external investment.

Rashford’s omission from United’s preseason preparations underscores his diminished role under Ten Hag, following a season marked by inconsistent form and limited starts. The forward’s recent trajectory contrasts sharply with his breakout years under Mourinho, when he established himself as a key player for both club and country. This dynamic has fueled speculation about whether a fresh start under familiar management could revitalize his career.

As the transfer window progresses, Fenerbahçe’s strategy hinges on leveraging time and market conditions to structure a feasible deal. Meanwhile, Barcelona’s interest remains tentative, with the Catalan giants prioritizing cost-effective signings amid ongoing financial pressures. For Rashford, the coming weeks will likely determine whether he reunites with Mourinho in Istanbul, returns to La Liga after a brief loan spell at Atlético Madrid earlier in his career, or explores alternative options across Europe.