OPINION
It is common knowledge that Newcastle United need some serious improvements in firepower this summer – but their chances of securing any proven Premier League talent seem slim at best.
The Magpies have Joselu and Dwight Gayle as their main striking options – a pair who have hardly struck fear into their opponents in recent years – and with Mike Ashley giving Rafael Benitez the bare minimum to spend, any top quality forwards are well out of reach.
A loan for Islam Slimani did not go to plan back in January, and the Spanish boss will be wondering just how he will manage to find the quality of striker for the pitiful amount of money he will have at his disposal.
However, that could all change.
The Daily Mail says that Manchester United boss could be willing to sanction the stunning loan exit of England youngster Marcus Rashford this summer, if he does not feel the 20-year-old will be playing regular first team football at Old Trafford.
With the possibility of a temporary exit, it is said that Newcastle, Everton and Leicester City among the sides keen on snapping up a deal for the electric forward, who is part of the Three Lions’ squad for the World Cup in Russia.
Even on loan, he is the sort of capture which would have the Toon Army on their feet, and it would leave the Magpies bouncing to have one of England’s brightest talents turning out in the famous black and white stripes.
It would be a battle to convince Manchester United to send him to the north east, but the promise of game time, as well as learning under one of the most revered top flight coaches in the shape of Rafael Benitez, should do the trick.
This rumour is bound to catch the eye of the Magpies faithful, and they would love it, just love it, if they could pull it off.