Man Utd identify World Cup star as 'leading' transfer target – with one major roadblock

1 Jul 2026 11:04 BST | 5 min read
Marcus Rashford, Man Utd
© IMAGO
Suraj Radia
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Manchester United have identified a star of the 2026 World Cup as a ‘leading target’ at left wing this summer, although their ability to complete a deal could hinge on one major roadblock.

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United are looking to make major improvements to their squad this summer to kick-start Michael Carrick’s tenure as full-time manager after leading the club to Champions League qualification last season.

Although United’s priority remains a second midfielder after the impending signing of Ederson, the failure to sign Mateus Fernandes could lead to a delay in finding a new target and deal for the club to pursue.

Instead, United could switch their attention to their attacking unit and the left wing spot in particular, with Crysencio Summerville emerging as the club’s top target, according to Sky Sports.

Current ETV
Player image Crysencio Summerville
Crysencio Summerville

F, M (L)

Crysencio Summerville
Crysencio Summerville

F, M (L)

West Ham

West Ham

€31M

ETV Range

€27.9M - €34.1M

Summerville grabbed two goals and two assists for the Netherlands at the World Cup before they were knocked out in the round of 32 and United could pursue a move for the West Ham star if they can find a new club for Marcus Rashford this summer.

Rashford future twist leaves Summerville transfer in limbo

Rashford is set to return to Old Trafford after his participation with England at the World Cup, having seen a permanent dream move to Barcelona all but ruled out barring a significant turnaround.

United had been banking on Rashford’s sale to boost their transfer balance and allow them the ability to sign a new left winger, particularly with the 28-year-old being one of the club’s highest earners.

However, it was revealed this week that Rashford has held talks with United over potentially rejoining the first team, having so far failed to find teams willing to sign him on a permanent basis, in part due to his wage demands.

The i paper also report that Manuel Ugarte’s long-term knee injury has led United to potentially consider the signing of a third midfielder, which would all but deplete their budget for a winger.

Rashford has also proven a reinvigorated figure during his England appearances in recent weeks but the 28-year-old is believed to be reluctant to join another Premier League team if he leaves United.

Crysencio Summerville is a target for Man Utd if they can sell Marcus Rashford.
© IMAGO - Crysencio Summerville is a target for Man Utd if they can sell Marcus Rashford.

Interest in Rashford has only come through loan offers currently and any exit may not be accelerated until later in the window, which leaves United’s pursuit of Summerville in limbo.

For now, it appears that Summerville will begin pre-season with relegated West Ham but the 24-year-old will have eyes on Rashford situation if he is to make the move to Manchester, with United hoping they can secure both him and two midfielders before the end of the summer.

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