Manchester United have now rejected Arsenal’s 2nd world record bid for striker Alessia Russo and do not intend to listen to any more offers for the player.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 11: Alessia Russo of Manchester United during the FA Women's Super League match between Manchester City and Manchester United at Etihad Stadium on December 11, 2022 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 11: Alessia Russo of Manchester United during the FA Women’s Super League match between Manchester City and Manchester United at Etihad Stadium on December 11, 2022 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

Manchester United have now rejected two world-record bids from Arsenal for English forward Alessia Russo with the second one believed to be close to £500k.

The 23-year-old Euro 2022 winner turned down an offer to extend her contract with Manchester United in June.

The first bid from Arsenal was reportedly more than the £400,000 Barcelona paid for England midfielder Keira Walsh in September. The second was, naturally, higher.

https://twitter.com/BBCMOTD/status/1620423247484555265

Russo’s contract with Manchester United expires this summer and clubs are free to talk with her as she has less than six months remaining on her deal.

While Manchester United has continued negotiations with Russo, no agreement has been reached.

Russo has scored 17 goals in 35 WSL appearances for Manchester United and 10 goals in 17 games for England.

Despite Manchester United’s desire to keep Russo, it was hoped they would find it difficult to reject further significant offers as her contract expires in the summer.

Arsenal have been interested in Russo for several months and these bids show their intention to sign her.

Russo’s departure in this window, however, could harm Manchester United’s title challenge and boost Arsenal’s chances.

Russo has also attracted interest from clubs in the US and top teams in Europe, including Chelsea and Lyon, who could also make a move before the deadline.

If Manchester United chooses not to sell, they risk losing Russo for free in six months.

In addition, the BBC claim that Arsenal have also made a bid for Danish striker Signe Bruun from Lyon.