Former Tottenham midfielder Jamie O'Hara has openly advocated for the North London club to make a move for Manchester United’s prolific forward Marcus Rashford. During a recent episode of Sky Sports’ "Tottenham Summer Special" podcast, O'Hara argued that head coach Roberto De Zerbi would be the perfect "man‑manager" to unlock Rashford’s potential, especially as the United star’s future remains uncertain. According to Sky Sports News, Tottenham are actively seeking a new left‑sided attacker, with interest already reported in Manchester City’s youngster Savinho and Liverpool’s versatile forward Cody Gakpo. O'Hara, however, believes the club should widen its search and target Rashford, who, despite his high wages, could bring a different dimension to the Spurs attack.
In the podcast O'Hara said, "I like Savinho – he’s shown flashes of brilliance, even if he hasn’t fully settled at City yet. Gakpo is also intriguing; he may need a few chances to find the net, but he possesses a certain quality that could be valuable. Yet I keep wondering why we aren’t chasing Marcus Rashford.
How much would he cost? What would we need to offer?" He continued, acknowledging Rashford’s current contract terms: "I know he’s on about £350,000 a week, and Tottenham might struggle to match that, but he’s a world‑class talent. Even if we acquire him at a reduced fee with a point to prove, he remains one of the best players in the game.
If he stays at United, he will still play, so I don’t understand why we haven’t shown more interest." Rashford returned to Manchester United’s squad after a season on loan at Barcelona, where he recorded 14 goals and 14 assists in 47 appearances, helping the Catalans clinch La Liga. O'Hara feels the 28‑year‑old would fit the "bomba" signing De Zerbi hinted at last month – the Italian manager has reportedly indicated a desire to bring in at least one quality wide attacker before the transfer window shuts. "De Zerbi is the perfect man‑manager for a player like Rashford," O'Hara asserted. "He knows how to get the best out of a forward, and Rashford would thrive under his guidance.
Whether Rashford wants to join Tottenham or looks elsewhere, the left side is still an area we need to strengthen. Mathys Tel is promising, but he isn’t the solution we require. We need a top‑drawer player who can elevate us to the next level." O'Hara added that if the club’s finances allow – and recent spending suggests there may be room – Spurs should act decisively: "If we have the money, and De Zerbi has signalled we’re bringing in another big name, then let’s make it happen." Tottenham have already invested £237 million in six new signings this summer, highlighted by the club‑record £100 million acquisition of Sandro Tonali. However, the forward line still feels thin, and with just under three weeks left before the deadline on September 1, the pressure to secure a high‑profile attacker is mounting.
Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge expressed confidence in De Zerbi’s recruitment plan, noting that the manager has been very hands‑on: "Tottenham know what they need. I’ve been impressed with the midfield signings, and De Zerbi’s interviews give the impression he has a clear vision for the attack. He’s been given the keys to the shop, so let’s see what doors he opens for the front line." The podcast also touched on another potential departure – right‑back Djed Spence, who is reportedly close to a £30 million move to Inter Milan. O'Hara warned that losing Spence could leave Tottenham with limited options at right back, especially if Pedro Porro suffers an injury.
He said, "I’d be disappointed to see Spence go. He can play across the back four and even on the wing.
He’s athletic, strong, and decent on the ball. If Porro gets injured, who steps in? Archie Gray is a promising midfielder, not a defender.
If we let Spence leave, we must bring in a replacement." Lyall Thomas, Sky Sports’ senior football editor, agreed that a younger right‑back could be a sensible target if Spence departs, emphasizing Porro’s reliability and his experience as a World Cup winner who could mentor a new signing. In summary, O'Hara’s message to the Tottenham hierarchy is clear: the club should not overlook Rashford as a potential marquee signing, especially given De Zerbi’s reputation for nurturing attacking talent. At the same time, the Spurs must address the right‑back position should Spence exit, possibly by securing a youthful prospect who can develop under Porro’s guidance.
Listeners can hear the full discussion on the "Tottenham Summer Special" podcast, available both as an audio stream and on YouTube.