Manchester United 'preparing to open contract talks with Marcus Rashford'

Manchester United are reportedly planning to begin contract discussions with Marcus Rashford.

The 24-year-old's struggles for form last season led to suggestions that he could leave the 20-time English champions during the summer transfer window.

Paris Saint-Germain are believed to have shown an interest in the England international last month, but Man United closed the door on any potential move for the club's academy product.

Rashford has been in impressive form for the Red Devils at the start of this season, scoring three goals and registering two assists in six Premier League appearances, and he has now managed 96 goals and 60 assists in 309 games for the club in all competitions.

The forward's current deal is due to expire next June, although the club have the option to extend the agreement by a further 12 months.

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According to The Sun, Man United are ready to begin talks with Rashford and his representatives over a new long-term deal at Old Trafford.

The report claims that the Red Devils are prepared to place a five-year deal on the table, having been impressed with his form in the early stages of this campaign.

Man United boss Erik ten Hag was asked about Rashford on Wednesday, as he spoke ahead of the team's Europa League opener with Real Sociedad.

"It's difficult for me to talk about the past, but I see a happy Marcus Rashford. I see some phases in his game which we could improve. We've worked really hard in the last two months with him on different aspects. He likes it and wants to transfer it to the pitch, and that is what we see in this moment," the Dutchman told reporters.

"It started with happiness, he's coming in every day, he's smiling with a really positive vibe. If you put all those things together you contribute more to the team performance, the result, and also your development."

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Ten Hag also said that Man United are "in control of the situation" regarding his contract, with the attacker believed to be a key part of the manager's plans moving forward.

"I don't think he is out of contract; I think United are in control of the situation," he added.

Rashford starred against Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon, scoring twice and providing an assist, as the Red Devils made it four straight victories in England's top flight.

The club's academy product has played as a centre-forward in the team's last four matches, but he could be rested against Real Sociedad in the Europa League on Thursday.

Despite his strong start to the season, Rashford has a fight on his hands to convince England boss Gareth Southgate to take him to the World Cup, with a number of players currently ahead of him in the thoughts of the 52-year-old.