Man Utd chase Messi clone as Rashford replacement

Cameron Smith

Updated: 21 Feb 2025 14:49 GMT
3 min read

Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing AS Roma superstar Paulo Dybala this summer.

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The Argentine has been linked with a Roma exit for the best part of 18 months, but he signed a one-year contract extension at the club in January and his new deal is now set to expire in 2026.

However, this hasn’t dissuaded Man Utd and Ruben Amorim’s side are expected to launch a full-blown pursuit ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window, according to Fichajes.

Dybala, who has frequently been compared to Lionel Messi throughout his career, was tipped to join Chelsea last summer, however the Blues’ interest dissipated after they agreed a deal to bring Kendry Paez to the club and Man Utd have now emerged as potential frontrunners in the race to sign him.

The 31-year-old has scored eight goals and provided three assists in 31 appearances across all competitions so far this season, and he is viewed as a player capable of improving Man Utd’s forward line.

Marcus Rashford, Antony and Alejandro Garnacho could all be sold on permanent deals this summer, amid heavy rumours of imminent exits, and Man Utd are therefore in need of significant attacking reinforcements.

Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres are both being targeted as the Red Devils chase a new striker, while Dybala is reportedly seen as a player capable of providing creativity and forward depth.

Paulo Dybala: Marcus Rashford’s replacement?

Man Utd’s interest in Dybala comes following Rashford’s January move to Aston Villa on loan.

The ex-England international was frozen out by Amorim in December and he has admitted that he wants a “new adventure” after nine years in the first-team at Old Trafford.

Barcelona were also interested in signing Rashford during the winter transfer window, although Villa won the race for his signature and Unai Emery’s side reportedly have the option to purchase Rashford on a permanent deal for €48 million (£40m) this summer.