Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford reportedly has a new frontrunner in the race for his signature.
The long-serving academy graduate has been absent from Ruben Amorim's plans since a Europa League fixture with Viktoria Plzen on December 12.
At a time when Amorim has doubled down on several occasions over his decision to leave out the England international, Rashford has been linked with a wide array of clubs.
AC Milan allegedly want the versatile attacker to make an immediate decision over his future, while Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona have emerged as potential destinations.
According to The Sun, though, those three European giants face further competition from a surprise candidate for Rashford's services.
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Rashford given Ligue 1 option?
The report claims that Monaco are ready to provide United with an attractive proposal in an effort to outbid their more illustrious rivals.
Monaco are allegedly open to paying a large portion - if not all - of the 27-year-old's wages until the end of the season.
With Rashford said to earn in the region of £350,000 to £375,000 per week, it would put United in a position where they are saving at least £5m in outgoings.
Furthermore, Red Devils may insist on a loan fee to bump up that figure, with Rashford left to decide whether he would be interested in a transfer to Stade Louis II.
Adi Hutter's side are currently preparing for Tuesday night's Champions League meeting with Aston Villa sitting in 16th position in the standings.
Victory over the Premier League outfit would leave Monaco - who are fourth in the Ligue 1 table - on the brink of qualifying for the playoffs for a last-16 spot.
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Is Rashford in any rush to make a decision?
Speculation has persisted over Rashford's future since the turn of the year, there having seemingly been no change to the situation behind the scenes at Old Trafford nor when it comes to choosing his next club.
United naturally want a transfer of some sort agreed as soon as possible as they bid to use any money saved on Rashford on an alternative for the final third.
Nevertheless, there is a feeling that Rashford may be prepared to bide his time, aware that more options could emerge when United will have less leeway to only accept the proposal that best suits them.
Darren Plant
