Tottenham already have 'new Marcus Rashford' as Jose Mourinho saw "incredible talent"

Manchester United have reportedly turned down an approach by Tottenham for Marcus Rashford, but Jose Mourinho already identified a member of their current squad as the next best thing.

Rashford burst onto the scene at United in 2015, and the 24-year-old has already racked up over 200 Premier League appearances for the Red Devils. But he struggled last season, and had to settle for the bench for large parts of the campaign.

The Times reported that Tottenham were knocked back by United after expressing interest in the forward, with Antonio Conte keen to bolster his attacking line ahead of the new season. But while Mourinho was at Tottenham, he tipped youngster Dane Scarlett to be the 'new Rashford' as he showered him with praise.

It was Mourinho that promoted a then 16-year-old Scarlett to the first team back in 2021, as the former Tottenham boss explained how he saw "incredible talent" in the forward. Scarlett has been given some opportunities off the bench under Conte, but has seen his game time lessened ever since Mourinho was sacked.

Scarlett made his debut at a similar age that Rashford did, although his trajectory has not been the same. Mourinho promised to make Scarlett a regular member of the first team during the 2021/22 season, but he was sacked before it even began.

But although Conte is now in the dugout, perhaps he can take some of Mourinho's advice and give Scarlett a chance if a deal for Rashford is not possible. And Mourinho was convinced back in 2021 that Scarlett was destined for greatness.

Video: Marcus Rashford works out on Instagram ahead of new season (Mirror)

Five players whose Man Utd careers ten Hag can revive

Premier League transfer news and rumours: 30/5/22

Unai Emery's 12 Arsenal Signings