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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Freddie Keighley

Sir Alex Ferguson tells Man Utd to complete transfer that will benefit Marcus Rashford

Sir Alex Ferguson insists Marcus Rashford is not a striker - and advised Manchester United to sign "an extra one" as they continue their resurgence under Erik ten Hag.

Rashford, 25, scored his 25th goal of the season on Sunday as the Red Devils overcame Newcastle in the Carabao Cup final. The in-form England forward had a slice of fortune as his close-range effort took a hefty deflection and looped over Loris Karius to double the lead Casemiro gave the men in red and white.

There has been nothing lucky about Rashford's performances this season, however, as he is in the form of his life and has taken on the mantle of being Manchester United's primary source of goals. His incisive movement gave Kieran Trippier all sorts of issues at Wembley Stadium and enthralled Old Trafford legend Sir Alex Ferguson as he watched on from the stands.

The Scot gave his verdict on the Red Devils' academy graduate while attending the final, highlighting his shooting technique as one of his key attributes. That being said, Ferguson has no doubt Rashford is most effective on the left flank and believes United would be wise to buy a new striker this summer.

Ferguson told Sky Sports of Rashford: "I don't think he's a striker. He operates away from the left-hand side and has been fantastic. His finishing is always good, always keeps his shots down – which is really important for a striker – and is in a great vein of form. Unfortunately for us, he's the main source of goals – we could do with an extra one, but he's doing it."

Is Marcus Rashford a better player through the middle or on the left wing? Have your say in the comments!

Marcus Rashford scored Manchester United's second goal against Newcastle (Getty Images)

Following Cristiano Ronaldo's acrimonious departure last November, Ten Hag moved in the January transfer window to bring in fellow Dutchman Wout Weghorst on a short-term loan from Burnley. The 30-year-old has only scored once in 12 appearances for his temporary club but his all-round game has impressed.

Despite Weghorst helping United win the Carabao Cup, it does not appear likely Old Trafford chiefs will attempt to sign him on a permanent basis from Championship leaders Burnley at the end of the season.

Victor Osimhen is believed to be Manchester United's priority transfer target (AFP via Getty Images)

Instead, they are expected to pursue Napoli sensation Victor Osimhen, who scored yet again on Saturday - his 19th goal in 20 Serie A appearances - to help the Italian giants extend their lead at the top of the table.

Reports earlier in February claimed Napoli will demand €100million (£88m) to part ways with their prized asset. United were given cause for encouragement last week when club president Aurelio de Laurentiis admitted that "sometimes there are offers you can't refuse".

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