Man United latest: Shock at Kobbie Mainoo plan as club stand firm on Marcus Rashford

Manchester United will be in for a busy few months after delaying a lot of decisions until the summer

Manchester United have experienced a renewed sense of optimism following the appointment of Michael Carrick.

The former Red Devils midfielder returned to Old Trafford just a month ago after Ruben Amorim's departure and has restored belief in a squad that desperately needed it. United's prospects of securing Champions League football have significantly improved under the interim head coach following his encouraging start in charge.

Whilst 12 matches remain for United, focus on the summer transfer window continues to intensify with each passing day. The impact Carrick has managed to achieve could present an opportunity for him to be considered for the permanent role.

Alongside the victories, his arrival has reportedly already prevented the departure of one club star. Regarding contracted United players, the club's position on a potential Marcus Rashford return is believed to be firmly established, as we examine some of the headlines emerging from Old Trafford.

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Kobbie Mainoo transfer plan caused surprise

The 20-year-old's transformation has been remarkable. Prior to Carrick's arrival, Mainoo not only failed to start a single Premier League match under Amorim, but was reportedly set to depart on loan for the remainder of the season.

The midfielder was rumoured to be on his way to Napoli, with Antonio Conte reportedly keen to bring the England international to Italy where he would have reunited with former United colleague Scott McTominay.

Several Premier League clubs including Tottenham, Aston Villa and Everton were all said to be interested in signing Mainoo before that possibility was abruptly closed following his return to the starting line-up. The Telegraph reported a sense of "genuine disbelief" in Naples due to United's apparent readiness to let Mainoo go.

This sentiment was reportedly echoed by "many Premier League clubs" until Mainoo was informed, following Carrick's appointment, that he would be reinstated to the first team in a more significant role.

Marcus Rashford return stance

The 28-year-old is currently thriving at Barcelona and has previously expressed his desire to stay in Catalonia beyond the summer. The LaLiga heavyweights have the option to purchase Rashford - who has contributed to 23 goals this season - for £26million, an option they're thought to be eager to exercise.

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It appears there is a consensus amongst all parties that a fresh start is the best course of action for the England winger. According to the Sun, United are standing firm and preparing for life without Rashford.

With United chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox spearheading efforts to appoint the club's next permanent manager, Rashford's future remains unchanged, despite prior suggestions Carrick would welcome a reunion.

It's been more than a year since he last featured for the club and he has no squad number at United since Matheus Cunha claimed his No. 10 following his summer arrival. United will likely enter the market this summer for a wide forward to replace both Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho.

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