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What's the rumour?
As per the report from The Evening Standard, Tottenham have made Manchester United's Anthony Martial a top transfer target. Mauricio Pochettino is eyeing a move for the Frenchman this summer.
In case you didn't know...
After enjoying a breakthrough season with Monaco in 2014-15, Martial was signed by Louis van Gaal for Manchester United the following season. He became an instant fan favourite when he scored a brilliant goal for the Red Devils in his debut match against Liverpool.
Since then, he has made 136 appearances for the club, scoring 36 and creating 26 goals. His current contract at United ends in 2019.
The heart of the matter
Martial got off to a good start this season as Jose Mourinho rotated him and Marcus Rashford on the left wing. However, following the arrival of Alexis Sanchez in January, Martial has found opportunities hard to come by and has fallen down the pecking order under Mourinho.
This has unsettled the player and he has been widely linked with a move away from the club since the turn of the year. Hence, the report suggests that Tottenham have identified him as a potential signing and are eyeing a move for the 22-year-old.
Pochettino is keen to add another striker to their ranks to help Harry Kane. Additionally, Martial is also skilled in playing on the left wing. Despite his limited playing time, Martial has had a hand in 20 goals for United this season.
Rumour rating/probability - 6/10
Although Martial's future casts a major shadow at the moment, United are unlikely to sell him to a Premier League club. At the moment, a move to Spurs seems unlikely.
Video: Martial in action for United this season
Author's take
While Martial is undoubtedly one of the best young prospects at the moment, United will be reluctant to sell him to a direct rival in Spurs. He will be an excellent addition to any club but it will be better for Spurs to focus on other alternatives.
