Former Tottenham midfielder Jamie O'Hara has publicly urged the North London club to make a move for Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford. During an appearance on Sky Sports' "Tottenham Summer Special" podcast, O'Hara argued that Spurs manager Roberto De Zerbi would be the perfect "man‑manager" to get the best out of Rashford, whose future at United remains uncertain. According to Sky Sports News, acquiring a left‑sided forward is a top priority for Tottenham this window. The club has already been linked with Manchester City’s youngster Savinho and Liverpool’s versatile attacker Cody Gakpo, but O'Hara believes Rashford should sit at the top of the list.
He said, "I just don't understand why we aren't going after Marcus Rashford. We should ask how much we can get him for and make a move if the price is right." O'Hara acknowledged the financial challenge, noting that Rashford is reportedly on a £350,000‑a‑week contract at United. "Spurs might not be able to match that wage, but if we can sign him for a reduced fee and give him a point to prove, he'd still be one of the best players available," he added. Rashford returned to the Manchester United squad after spending last season on loan at Barcelona.
The Catalan side decided not to purchase him despite his impressive tally of 14 goals and 14 assists in 47 matches, which helped Barcelona clinch the La Liga title. O'Hara suggested that the 28‑year‑old would fit the "bomba" signing De Zerbi hinted at last month – a statement that the Italian coach wants to bring in at least one quality wide attacker before the summer window closes. "De Zerbi is the perfect man‑manager for someone like Rashford," O'Hara said.
"He knows how to maximise a player’s strengths and would get the most out of him. Whether Rashford wants to come to Tottenham or prefers another destination remains to be seen, but the left side is a clear area where Spurs need reinforcement.
Mathys Tel is a promising youngster, but he isn’t the solution we need right now. We need a top‑drawer player who can elevate the team and push us to the next level." Spurs have already splashed out £237 million on six new signings this summer, highlighted by the club‑record £100 million acquisition of Sandro Tonali.
Yet the forward line still looks thin, and with just under three weeks left before the transfer deadline, there is growing concern that the recruitment drive may be stalling. Sky Sports News reporter Michael Bridge expressed confidence in De Zerbi’s vision, stating, "From the conversations I’ve had and what I’ve seen so far, I’m sure Tottenham will get what they need. The midfield signings have impressed me, and De Zerbi seems to have a clear plan for the attacking positions. He’s been very hands‑on, and the club has given him the freedom to open the door on new forwards." The discussion also turned to the potential departure of England teammate Djed Spence.
The 26‑year‑old right‑back is reportedly close to a £30 million move to Inter Milan. O'Hara warned that losing Spence could leave Tottenham with only Pedro Porro as a reliable option at right‑back. He said, "I’d be disappointed to see Spence go. He can play across the back line and on the wing, is athletic and strong, and offers versatility.
If Porro gets injured, we need a quality replacement – we can’t rely solely on Destiny Udogie or a youngster like Archie Gray." Should Spence indeed depart, Sky Sports senior editor Lyall Thomas suggested Spurs should target a younger right‑back with development potential. He highlighted Porro’s durability and experience, noting that his presence could serve as a mentorship for any incoming prospect.
In summary, O'Hara’s message to the Tottenham hierarchy is clear: prioritize a marquee signing on the left flank, and Rashford fits the bill both in terms of talent and the type of player De Zerbi can nurture. While financial constraints are real, O'Hara believes a creative deal could bring the England international to White Hart Lane, giving the club a proven goal‑scorer and a player capable of thriving under De Zerbi’s tactical system.
The coming weeks will reveal whether Spurs act on this suggestion or continue to explore other options like Savinho or Gakpo as they aim to strengthen their attacking options before the September 1 deadline.