'I turned down Man United transfer - Marcus Rashford could still end up my team-mate'

Christian Pulisic rejected a move to Manchester United in 2019 - but he could team up with Marcus Rashford in the near future.

It is six years since United rivalled Chelsea for the then-Borussia Dortmund' winger's signature. The USA international reportedly turned down United's interest before the January transfer window, fearing that former manager Jose Mourinho would not give the young winger a chance.

Instead of joining forces with Rashford and Paul Pogba, Pulisic was tasked with succeeding Eden Hazard at Chelsea after the Belgian's high-profile transfer to Real Madrid. He may have struggled to fill Hazard's shoes, but Pulisic has enjoyed a new lease of life since joining AC Milan, who have been linked with signing Rashford this month.

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In July 2023, Pulisic completed a £20million move to Milan, scoring 25 goals and registering 17 assists in 75 games for the Rossoneri. Although the American missed out on playing alongside Rashford in England, the two could soon be teammates at the San Siro. The United striker's camp has discussed a possible loan move with Milan.

Rashford has been scrutinised for his disappointing form this season, and his future at Old Trafford has been the subject of much speculation. Last month, the 27-year-old openly expressed his readiness to leave United and embrace a new challenge.

"I'm halfway through my career. I don't expect my peak to be now," Rashford said. "I've had nine years so far in the Premier League and that's taught me a lot, that's helped me grow as a player and as a person. So I don't have any regrets from the last nine years."

Rashford's representative was reported to have flown to Milan this Tuesday for talks with an official from the Serie A club. Yet, if Rashford were to join Milan, Pulisic might pose a challenge for a starting place on the left wing.

Milan's left flank is often occupied by star forward Rafael Leao. Pulisic, usually preferred on the right, also has the versatility to play the left, which could harm Rashford's prospects based on his recent performances. Nonetheless, Milan have emerged as the frontrunner for Rashford's signature after he rejected three bids from Saudi Arabian teams, each believed to be around £35m.

Furthermore, The Athletic has reported that Borussia Dortmund are considering an offer to bring Rashford on loan for the remainder of the season. Dortmund signed Jadon Sancho on loan when he was similarly struggling at Old Trafford last term and helped rejuvenate his fortunes.