For Marcus Rashford, January could be a month that defines the rest of his career.
The Manchester United winger has openly discussed his desire for a “new challenge” after spending his life at Old Trafford and his wish looks increasingly likely to come true before the end of the winter window. A loan move seems more likely than a permanent sale as things stand.
It is understood that the 27-year-old has an extensive list of suitors. While his standards have dipped over the last 18 months, Rashford produced a 30-goal season in 2022/23, having scored over 20 goals in two of the previous three seasons.
Prospective buyers are rooting for that durability and destructive quality that is being rediscovered away from Manchester's gritty glitz.
With that in mind, here are Rashford's most likely destinations – in order, of course.
Reports have revealed this Rashford has already refused several approaches from the cash-rich Saudi Pro League. With his £300,000-a-week wages a stumbling block for most clubs targeting a permanent deal, many teams in the Middle East would be able to match and increase those wage demands.
That Rashford has rejected a move suggests his mind won't change, even as desperation grows later in the January window. Evidence of the struggles suffered by his former international team-mate Jordan Henderson may be enough to put him off.
The Man Utd number 10 could perhaps turn his nose up at the prospect of joining West Ham. The Irons lack the prestige of many of their fellow suitors, with a poor start to the season under Julen Lopetegui failing to improve their status.
However, West Ham are thought to be in the mix for Rashfordeven if they realize they are unlikely to be the most persuasive followers. The arrival of new manager Graham Potter could be a factor playing into the Hammers' hands, as could the fact that Rashford would not have to leave the comfort of English football.
Rashford will have seen how a loan move to West Ham helped former team-mate Jesse Lingard rediscover his lethal streak in 2021. Can it provide the same safe haven for him?
Marcus Rashford lines up Barcelona?
You'd imagine the Catalan giants wouldn't be able to pull off such a move, given that they can't even sign the players they have due to ongoing financial mismanagement (Dani Olmo, Pau Victor, we're looking at you , friends).
But the rumblings coming out of Spain are that Barca will do anything to get Rashford *checks notes* THE The Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys Stadium – whether or not they need it, given that they have Lamine Yamal and Raphinha swinging around, remains to be seen.
Surprise contenders to secure Rashford's loan are Italian side Como, who were promoted to Serie A for the first time in 21 years prior to the current season. They are currently battling relegation under manager Cesc Fabregas, with survival uncertain going into the second half of the season.
Rashford would certainly be a big fish in a small pond at Lombardy, especially after his former team-mate Raphael Varane retired in September after joining Como in the summer. It would offer guaranteed playing time and less expectation.
However, performing at a high level in a weaker team is its challenge. Como average just over a goal per game in Serie A and Rashford would face unique pressure to lead them to safety.
Man Utd are highly unlikely to loan Rashford to a direct enemy – they may have learned their lesson after sending Jadon Sancho to Chelsea, where the winger is now thriving – but the Red Devils and Tottenham do not share a fierce rivalry.
Spurs are on the hunt for reinforcements this winter, with Rashford among them those that are considered. Tottenham are keen to strengthen their forward line – even if their defense is in more need of fresh blood – and Ange Postecoglou would be an attractive coach for most attacking players.
Rashford, who has scored six goals in 17 games for Spurs, would be offered plenty of attacking freedom in north London, although he would face stiff competition from Son Heung-min for a starting spot on the left-back. favorite.
Rashford may have heard Antonio Conte horror stories from friends and team-mates, but he could get the chance to experience the brutal Italian first-hand for the remainder of the campaign. Napoli, who have been led to the summit of Serie A under the former Chelsea and Spurs boss, are in the hunt for his signature.
Their interest in Rashford could hinge on the future of Georgian superstar Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. which is interesting Man Utd and a host of other European clubs. Napoli are finally open to selling the tricky winger and Rashford could hypothetically be used as a bargaining chip in a deal with the Red Devils.
However, the fear of playing under such a defensive-minded manager could be a deciding factor in Rashford accepting such a change.
Juventus' lack of experience in wide attacking areas has proved a problem for Thiago Motta during his debut season in Turin. The Old Lady have been stoic in defense this season, but have lacked flair, consistency and a spark at the other end of the pitch.
Obviously, they are looking to resolve that particular issue in January, with Rashford among their targets. Juventus' current attacking options fail to inspire, with even star striker Dusan Vlahovic struggling to fully convince the Allianz Stadium faithful.
Juve certainly don't lack the prestige Rashford might want for his first move away from Old Trafford and he would be an instant first choice for the Bianconeri.
Borussia Dortmund have often offered a sanctuary for the Englishman. Jude Bellingham and Jadon Sancho flourished at Signal Iduna Park, the latter finding form following his return there last season on loan from Man Utd. Even within their current squad, Jamie Gittens is enjoying a torrid campaign.
Such tales could serve as inspiration for Rashford, who would work under exciting new coach Nuri Sahin. Sancho rebuilt his reputation with the Bundesliga giants last season and delivered Champions League final, allowing him to forge a route to west London last summer.
Dortmund, a club that prioritizes attacking efforts and boasts one of the best fans in football, could provide just the shelter Rashford needs in his return to elite level. These Bundesliga top lines would be in trouble.
It may be quicker to name the Italian sides who do not want to sign Rashford this winter, with AC Milan leading the race. They were the first party to do one formal approach to Man Utdwith the reigning Super Cup champions looking to revive themselves under new coach Sergio Conceicao.
Rashford's representatives are said to have discussed a possible move to Milan after the trip to Italy, with a loan deal possibly including an option to buy subject to wage demands.
Rashford would meet plenty of familiar faces in Milan as English trio Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Tammy Abraham and Fikayo Tomori all represent the Reds. This would certainly help the solution in the process.
There would be stiff competition for a left-back spot with Rafael Leaon appealing, but a move to the seven-time European champions could be too good an offer to turn down.