In what would undoubtedly be regarded as one of the biggest scalps in Manchester City's history, reports emerging in Spain are suggesting that Pep Guardiola is planning an audacious bid for Marcus Rashford.
Rashford, who turned 20 last week, has been in tantalising form for the red half of Manchester this season. The England international has already scored seven times this year and has assisted in six of United's goals so far.
David Silva to Liverpool is my favourite rumour alongside Pep Guardiola personally calling Jose Mourinho to enquire about Marcus Rashford.
— Shane Burns (@ShaneBurns_) November 6, 2017
Testing United's resolve?
Over the past 12-months, Rashford's stock has skyrocketed after his performances last season in a United side that picked up three trophies.
Since scoring on his United debut in February 2016, the homegrown talent has quickly announced himself as United's new poster boy.
Given Rashford's dramatic rise to domestic and international stardom, it's no surprise that a number of Europe's biggest teams are chasing the youngsters signature. Last summer it was heavily reported that both Barcelona and Real Madrid were ready to break the bank in order to secure the 20-year-olds services.
However, Spanish publication Don Balon has reported that City Boss Pep Guardiola has made initial contact with their cross-town rivals regarding Rashford's availability. Due to the historic rivalry between the two sides, coupled with their battle at the top of the table, it is no surprise to hear that the rumors are being laughed off by the Old Trafford faithful.
However, the Spanish website insists that Manchester City's boss has become a huge admirer of the forward and wants to bolster his attacking options even further. This year, Guardiola has shown that he is building a side based on developing young talent. The Catalan tactician is allegedly eyeing up Rashford as a potential long-term partner for Gabriel Jesus.
Despite being above Anthony Martial in United's pecking order, the Spanish manager is said to be willing to guarantee Rashford more game time.
Could there potentially be some mind games taking place in England's second city? The rivalry between Pep and Jose has been well publicised over recent years, stemming back to their days in Spain.
Although the reports are obviously regarded as nothing more than ludicrous paper talk, Guardiola could be looking to slightly unsettle their title contenders.
Despite the gossip, Rashford is almost certain to reject any advances from United's neighbours. Growing up as a Manchester United supporter, prying Rashford away from his beloved Old Trafford is going to be mission impossible for The Citizens.
Swapping red for blue
But, at the end of the day, this is football, and stranger things have happened. As United fans' will be more than aware of, if Rashford were to swap his red jersey for a blue one, he would be following in the footsteps of several United icons.
Over the past 40 years, seven Manchester United players have done the unthinkable.
Granted, unlike Rashford, many names on the list were in the final chapter of their careers.
The most iconic name on the list is undoubtedly Denis Law. Scoring 237 goals in 404 games, the Scot is still regarded as one of United's most iconic servants. However, Law managed to break Manchester United's hearts when he elected to sign for City in 1973.
At City, he managed to secure his place in folk law. On his final appearance as a professional, Law faced off against his beloved United. However, his iconic back heel goal on the final day of the season condemned Manchester United to Division two and symbolised United's relegation.
Also on the list are two of United's 1999 treble winners', Peter Schmeichel and Andy Cole both had spells at the Etihad. They are joined by Carlos Tevez, Brian Kidd, Owen Hargreaves and Andrei Kanchelskis.
