Manchester United could profit from three unexpected transfer deals this summer

There will be plenty of European interest for Manchester United when football resumes after the international break, and not just in a Europa League quarter-final against Ligue 1 side Lyon.

Ruben Amorim's side are trying to salvage their season in the Europa League, but in the Champions League, Marcus Rashford is looking to continue his vibrant start at Aston Villa against Paris St-Germain, while Antony (Real Betis) and Jadon Sancho (Chelsea) will both be confident of reaching the Conference League final.

It says a lot about the state of the United squad that three senior forwards have departed on loan deals in the last two transfer windows, but at least a couple of them are working at the moment.

Rashford has been impressive at Villa Park, even though he is yet to get on the scoresheet. He was won over supporters, and Villa will seriously consider activating the option to sign him permanently this summer.

But even if they decide against that, if the 27-year-old can maintain this form he will widen his options heading into the window. Barcelona was his dream destination in January, and although the Nou Camp club will again be dealing with financial issues, they could look to make a deal happen based on what Rashford is doing at Villa.

Antony has also shone in La Liga, registering four goals and four assists in 11 appearances, pushing himself closer to a return to the Brazilian national team. That January loan move didn't include an option to buy, but Betis have made it clear they want to keep the 25-year-old for the 2025/26 season and push through another temporary deal.

United will prioritise a permanent departure before another loan deal and Antony's form reminds suitors of the talent he displayed at Ajax. A market