Marcus Rashford transfer update: Keown dismisses Arsenal move amid United future

Marcus Rashford’s future remains unsettled after his loan stint at Barcelona ended without a permanent move, and now former Arsenal defender Martin Keown has poured cold water on transfer talk linking him to the Gunners.

What happened to Marcus Rashford at Barcelona?

Rashford spent the 2025/26 season on loan at Barcelona, scoring 14 goals and making 14 assists across all competitions as the Blaugrana retained their La Liga crown. The Catalans opted against triggering the £26m buy option agreed with Manchester United last summer, despite offering to pay around half the fee or another season-long loan. United shut the door on fresh talks, and Barcelona’s subsequent signings of Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi made a return to Camp Nou highly unlikely.

Why Martin Keown doubts a Marcus Rashford to Arsenal move

On talkSPORT, Keown stated bluntly, “I don’t see that, I’d be surprised if that happened.” He added context about Rashford’s form, saying, “By the way, I thought actually that Rashford did well for Aston Villa.” Keown, who famously clashed with Ruud van Nistelrooy at Old Trafford in 2023, suggested Rashford had “gone off the rails” in the past but now appeared “back on track.”

What’s next for Marcus Rashford at Manchester United?

Rashford is set to rejoin United’s squad for pre-season training under Michael Carrick, who is said to be open to working with the player. Both Rashford and United prefer a separation, though the door isn’t fully closed. Carrick’s interim role adds another layer: will Rashford welcome him back in a city where he’s already spent his entire career?

Keown’s take on Rashford’s recovery and United’s outlook

Keown expressed hope that Rashford’s past issues are behind him, saying, “I think he’s back on keel and you want to see these players at their best.” He also questioned whether returning to Manchester would be a distraction, but concluded that Rashford appears settled. Rio Ferdinand has previously urged Arsenal to consider Rashford, but Keown’s verdict suggests the window may have closed before it ever opened.