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 the team's new manager, Roberto De Zerbi, would be the perfect "man‑manager" to get the best out of Rashford, whose future at United remains uncertain.
O'Hara highlighted that Tottenham have identified a left‑side attacker as a priority this transfer window. The club have already been linked with Manchester City prospect Savinho and Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo, but O'Hara believes Rashford would be an even more compelling target. He said, "I like Savinho – he shows flashes of quality, even if he hasn't fully broken through at City. I also like Gakpo, although he sometimes needs several chances to find the net.
Still, I wouldn't be disappointed with either of them. But I just don't understand why we aren't chasing Marcus Rashford. We should simply ask: how much would he cost?" He acknowledged Rashford's current wage of about £350,000 per week, noting that Tottenham might struggle to match that figure.
Nevertheless, O'Hara stressed that the player’s talent outweighs the financial hurdle. "If we can sign him at a reduced fee, with a point to prove, he remains one of the top players in the game.
Even if he stays at United, he'll still be a quality performer, so I don't see why Tottenham haven't shown more interest," he added. Rashford returned to Manchester United's squad after a season-long loan at Barcelona, where he tallied 14 goals and 14 assists in 47 matches and helped the Catalans clinch the LaLiga title. Despite his impressive output, Barcelona chose not to exercise a purchase option. O'Hara believes the 28‑year‑old would fit the "bomba" signing De Zerbi hinted at last month – a marquee acquisition to strengthen the squad’s wide areas before the summer window closes.
"De Zerbi is the perfect man‑manager for someone like Rashford," O'Hara asserted. "He knows how to unlock a player's potential. Rashford would be a great addition, even if he ultimately decides against Tottenham or prefers another destination. The left side still needs reinforcement.
While Mathys Tel is a promising youngster, he is not the solution we need right now. We require a top‑class player who can elevate the team and push us to the next level." O'Hara added that if the club's finances allow – and recent spending suggests they might – Tottenham should act decisively.
"We've already spent £237 million on six new signings this summer, and the record £100 million fee for Sandro Tonali shows we can invest. If De Zerbi says we can bring in another big name, we should make it happen." The podcast also touched on other transfer topics, including the potential departure of England teammate Djed Spence.
The 26‑year‑old right‑back is reportedly close to a move to Inter Milan, possibly for around £30 million. O'Hara expressed disappointment at the idea of losing Spence, emphasizing his versatility across the back four and wing positions. "He's athletic, strong, and comfortable on the ball. Even if he lacks a little in the attacking department, his adaptability makes him valuable.
If Pedro Porro gets injured – and we can't rely on Destiny Udogie's fitness – we need someone like Spence to step in." Should Spence indeed leave, O'Hara warned Tottenham would need to recruit another right‑back before the September 1 deadline. Sky Sports senior editor Lyall Thomas echoed this sentiment, suggesting the club look for a younger prospect who can develop under the guidance of experienced players like Porro, a World Cup winner who can serve as a mentor. Overall, O'Hara's comments paint a picture of a club eager to strengthen both flanks.
He believes that a high‑profile signing such as Rashford would not only address the immediate need for a left‑winger but also send a signal of ambition to the fanbase. Meanwhile, retaining versatile defenders like Spence remains crucial for squad depth. For listeners interested in the full discussion, the Tottenham summer special podcast is available on Sky Sports' platforms and YouTube, featuring additional insights from Sky Sports News reporters Michael Bridge and Lyall Thomas on the club's summer strategy, potential captaincy changes, and expectations for the upcoming Premier League campaign.