Truth behind ‘crazy’ Man Utd transfer rumour revealed

Robin Bairner

• 11 Jan 2024 12:24 GMT
• 3 min read

Manchester United are a club constantly surrounded by transfer rumours and speculation, particularly during a period when they are known to be trying to offload the club’s deadwood, such an Anthony Martial.

The Frenchman has been at the centre of transfer speculation for weeks, first regarding his contract, which will not be renewed, and now with a future destination for the France international striker in mind.

Martial is expected to move to Fenerbahce, but rumours emerged that he might make a return to Ligue 1 with Marseille.

The Sun quoted a source that indicated OM were interested in a loan for the player who is out of contract in June 2024.

“Interest in Anthony remains high,” the unnamed source said. “He’s perhaps not very popular at Manchester United, but there are European clubs interested in him. Marseille are at the head of the list and are in contact with Manchester United for a loan in January.

“The problem is the player himself. As things stand, he plans to finish his contract and reconsider his options in the summer. Anthony believes that his next move is crucial so he does not intent to rush to make a decision on his future.”

Marseille have an in-form Aubameyang

While Martial going back to France may appear logical, Marseille are not a club presently looking for a forward.

OM already have Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as a big-earning No.9, and though he started the season slowly, the Gabon international caught light before Christmas and is not up to 13 goals and seven assists across all competitions, including four strikes and four decisive passes in his last five Ligue 1 matches.

As such, the rumour linking Martial to Marseille has been branded “crazy” in the French media, with FootMercato confirming there “absolutely nothing” behind this particular transfer story.