Manchester United have reportedly identified Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams as a potential replacement for Marcus Rashford.
The 27-year-old has spent his whole career at Man United, but it seems that his long association with the club is coming to an end.
Rashford has seen some of his performances under scrutiny this season despite registering seven goals and three assists in 24 competitive appearances.
The forward was one of two notable absentees, with Alejandro Garnacho, for Sunday's 2-1 win over Manchester City in the Manchester derby.
Amorim revealed that it was a technical decision to omit Rashford and Garnacho from the matchday squad for the short trip to the Etihad Stadium.
Man United earmark Williams as Rashford replacement
Rashford has since fueled speculation over his future, admitting in a recent interview that he is "ready for a new challenge and the next steps".
Amorim has responded to Rashford's bombshell statements, insisting he still wants to keep the academy product at Old Trafford.
However, Amorim's comments are unlikely to dampen the speculation about whether Rashford could seek a January exit.
If they were to consider a January departure, Man United would have to sign an attacker to replace Rashford in the first-team squad.
According to Fichajes, Man United are considering Williams a 'potential star signing' to fill the void left by Rashford's possible departure.
The Spain winger would certainly add quality to Amorim's attacking ranks, but Man United may have their work cut out to sign the Athletic star, especially if they look to pursue a move in the middle of the season.
Will Williams leave Athletic in January?
Williams was heavily linked with a move to Barcelona in the summer after he impressed in the 2023-24 campaign and in Spain's Euro 2024 success.
The 22-year-old opted to stay put at San Mames due to concerns about whether Barcelona would be able to register him with La Liga.
Williams has seemingly changed his stance on a potential departure, with the attacker ready to make the step up in next summer's transfer window.
Barcelona continue to be linked with his signature, while there is also interest from Man City, Arsenal and Liverpool.
While Williams could leave Athletic in 2025, it seems likely that he would wait until the end of the season before considering his options.
If he were to leave in January, he would give up the chance to play in a potential home European final with his beloved Athletic.
Ernesto Valverde's side are hoping to go all the way to the Europa League final which will take place at Athletic's home of San Mames on May 21. body check tags ::
