Bayern Munich Shifts Focus: From Luis Diaz to Marcus Rashford
Bayern Munich are now turning their attention to Marcus Rashford after missing out on Liverpool’s Luis Diaz. With their hunt for a new left-winger still on, the German giants are considering the Manchester United forward as a realistic alternative.
The transfer market rarely lacks drama, and Bayern’s latest maneuver adds another chapter to this summer’s storylines. After Liverpool confirmed Diaz would stay at Anfield, Bayern immediately explored other high-profile options. Among them, Rashford’s name gained traction fast.
Why Rashford Now Appears on Bayern’s Radar
Initially, Rashford was not Bayern’s first option. They pursued Diaz with confidence, hoping to take advantage of Liverpool’s shifting priorities. Unfortunately for Bayern, Liverpool manager Arne Slot insisted that Diaz remains central to their plans.
Because of that decision, Bayern began evaluating other wide attacking players. Rashford, still searching for consistency and harmony at United, offers a compelling alternative.
It’s worth noting Rashford spent the latter half of the 2024/25 season on loan at Aston Villa. That move followed internal tension with United boss Ruben Amorim. Rashford was even dropped from several matchday squads, igniting speculation about his long-term role at Old Trafford.
With United open to listening to offers, Bayern sees this moment as an opportunity.
Not First Choice, But Definitely an Option
Even though Bayern Munich have serious interest in Rashford, he’s not their top priority. According to reports, the club is also monitoring Nico Williams (Athletic Club), Rafael Leao (AC Milan), and Bradley Barcola (PSG).
However, Rashford brings qualities that fit Bayern’s system well—direct pace, versatility, and elite experience. Bayern also needs a replacement for Leroy Sane, who recently joined Galatasaray.
While the club continues to assess all their winger targets, Rashford’s availability makes him an attractive fallback.
Transfer Details: What It Would Take to Sign Rashford
Sources from ESPN suggest Bayern already contacted Manchester United to understand the financial scope of a potential deal. Interestingly, United are willing to sell Rashford for around £40 million. They are also reportedly open to a loan deal, especially if it helps resolve dressing room dynamics.
Still, one major hurdle stands in the way: Rashford’s wages. The 27-year-old earns a hefty salary and still has three years remaining on his current contract. Unless Bayern agree to match his income—or Rashford agrees to a pay cut—the deal might stall.
At this point, Rashford hasn’t signaled any willingness to lower his wage demands. That puts the ball firmly in Bayern’s court.
Barcelona Interest Resurfaces, But Only in Rumors
Before Bayern entered the conversation, Rashford had also been loosely linked to Barcelona. He publicly stated his admiration for rising star Lamine Yamal and even expressed a dream to play alongside him someday.
Despite that sentiment, no formal offer or move was made by the La Liga champions. Financial restrictions and squad priorities likely pushed Rashford down Barcelona’s transfer list.
With that said, Bayern are now in a stronger position to make a serious move.
Diaz Stays Put, Forcing Bayern to Pivot
Luis Diaz’s decision to remain at Liverpool has indirectly opened the door for Rashford. In May, the Colombian forward made it clear that he was happy and settled on Merseyside. “I’m very happy and I enjoy being part of this team,” Diaz said during an interview.
With no chance of prying Diaz away from Liverpool, Bayern had no option but to reevaluate their strategy. Rashford’s situation presents both risk and reward, depending on how negotiations evolve.
Can Bayern Convince Rashford to Make the Switch?
Everything now hinges on compromise. If Bayern can offer a competitive package or if Rashford decides to chase a fresh challenge outside England, then a deal might take shape quickly.
This transfer would allow Rashford to escape the tensions at United, embrace a new culture, and play under a fresh system. For Bayern, the reward could be enormous—especially with Rashford still in his prime and motivated to prove himself.
Yet, no major move in football comes without risk. Bayern must carefully weigh the cost of Rashford’s wages against his potential impact. They’ve been smart operators in the past, but this situation demands sharp negotiation and clear planning.
Read too: Liverpool Eyes Guehi as Van Dijk Successor This Summer
