In January, Arsenal made a surprise “phone call” to Manchester United regarding a deal for Marcus Rashford, luring the Red Devils in with an alluring offer. Rashford wants to leave Old Trafford after declaring last month that he was looking for a “new challenge,” but he has few options because of his £300,000 weekly salary and his lack of interest in moving to Saudi Arabia or Turkey.

While negotiations with Milan are allegedly farther advanced, talks have also been held with Juventus and Borussia Dortmund. According to a report on Thursday, West Ham has also been asked to be “kept informed of Rashford’s situation” since Graham Potter took over as manager in place of Julen Lopetegui, “but know he is more likely to join a top European side.”

Given a Daily Mail report claiming that Tottenham and their frugal chairman Daniel Levy are also interested in the 27-year-old, Milan’s refusal to pay more than half of Rashford’s £300,000 weekly salary may be a sticking point.

Arsenal initiate stunning Marcus Rashford transfer

The source further stated that Rashford would be made fully aware by Arsenal that he would be entering as a squad player and that regular minutes would not be guaranteed. Rashford’s willingness to accept such a decline in rank is still unknown. He is no longer a sure starter at Old Trafford, though, and that much is obvious. While all is going on, Rashford’s brother, Dwaine Maynard, who also serves as his agent, has already met in person with representatives from AC Milan and Juventus in Italy.

Although the problem of Rashford’s £325,000 weekly pay has been cited as one that may blow a deal, Milan has recently attracted the most interest. According to reports, Manchester United would demand that any loaning team pay more than half of Rashford’s salary. Rashford would instantly overtake Alvaro Morata (£150,000 per week) as Milan’s highest-paid player if that demand were met.