Cunha Takes No. 10 as Rashford's Man United Future in Doubt Amid Transfer Rumors

Manchester United have officially announced that new signing Matheus Cunha will inherit the coveted No. 10 shirt, previously worn by Marcus Rashford. The announcement signals a shift within the club and raises further questions about Rashford's future at Old Trafford.

As reported by ESPN last week, the decision to reassign the shirt number comes after Rashford, who has worn it since 2018, has been absent from the squad. Cunha, arriving from Wolves for a reported fee of £62.5 million ($84.6m), sported the No. 10 during his time at Molineux.

Rashford's last appearance for Manchester United was in December, and he spent the latter half of the previous season on loan at Aston Villa.

The 27-year-old England international has been advised by club officials to postpone his return to Carrington as he explores potential moves away from the club.

The rest of the squad commenced preseason training on Monday.

Several other players, including Antony, Jadon Sancho, Alejandro Garnacho, and Tyrell Malacia, have also expressed their desire to leave Manchester United this summer and have been granted extended leave to facilitate potential transfers.

The club expects all five players to return later in July if their transfers do not materialize.

Manchester United's squad, led by Ruben Amorim, is scheduled to travel to Chicago on July 22 for a three-game tour of the United States.

Aston Villa have opted not to exercise their option to secure Rashford on a permanent deal for £40m. This valuation remains consistent for any club interested in acquiring the player this summer, although Manchester United have yet to receive any concrete offers.

Sources indicate to ESPN that Rashford's representatives are optimistic that Barcelona will intensify their pursuit, particularly after Nico Williams committed his future to Athletic Club by signing a new long-term contract.

Bayern Munich are also reportedly seeking a winger and were previously linked to Williams.

Barcelona have also registered interest in Luis Díaz, but Liverpool have maintained a firm stance against entertaining offers for the Colombian international.

ESPN sources also reveal that Rashford's preferred destination would be a move abroad, with the opportunity to play Champions League football being a key factor.

With three years remaining on his current contract, Manchester United are reportedly open to considering season-long loan offers, provided they can significantly reduce their wage expenditure.