Aston Villa are closing in on a loan deal for Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford before Monday's transfer deadline. Sources have told BBC Sport talks are at an advanced stage, but there is work to be done to finalise the move. The prospect of working with Villa boss Unai Emery is understood to be an attractive one for the 27-year-old.
Rashford has not featured for United since being dropped by head coach Ruben Amorim for the Manchester derby on December 12. Last week, Amorim suggested he would rather give place on the bench to his 63-year-old goalkeeping coach because of the perceived lack of effort by the striker. On Wednesday, the United boss said he felt his side would be stronger with Rashford, but the player had not met the standards he demands of his squad.
"Imagine a talent like Rashford, our team should be so muchbetter with him - but he has to change," explained Amorim. "If he changes, we are more than welcome [to include him] - and we need it. But at this moment we have to set some standards. We are waiting for Rashford, if he wants it really bad."
Since starting his career at Manchester United at age seven and making over 400 appearances, Rashford has won the Europa League, two FA Cups, and two EFL Cups. He initially made his mark by scoring during Amorim's first game as manager, but recently, his performance has faded. Rashford has not played since being omitted from the squad for United's 2-1 victory at Manchester City on December 15.
Villa have already nabbed Spanish full-back Andres Garcia from Levante and Netherlands forward Donyell Malen from Borussia Dortmund this transfer window. Just last week, they sold striker Jhon Duran to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr in a deal worth £71 million. They have also rejected Arsenal's approach for their England striker Ollie Watkins.
The potential of Rashford joining Villa has prompted many to speculate what could happen next. If he starts scoring at Villa under Unai Emery’s guidance, and United struggles to find their scoring touch, questions will arise about the coaching decisions happening at Old Trafford.
Rashford, who has tremendous talent, is expected to benefit from Emery's experience. An opinion shared by former Manchester United and Aston Villa striker Dion Dublin, who dubbed the move "a great move" for Rashford. Dublin noted, "It is such a stable club with a very, very good manager. There would be some world-class players around him and he would be going to a very happy camp."
He added, "Marcus needs a big hug and for someone to tell him, 'Listen, you're an excellent player'. I think Unai Emery could be the coach to get the best out of him. Let's see what happens." Ellen White, another former player, also weighed in, saying, "A move to Aston Villa would be something new and fresh for Marcus Rashford. We know he can be a great goalscorer and he is agreat player. He just needs something different, a new environment."
Rashford’s discontent at United has become quite evident, especially after his interview with journalist Henry Winter where he said he was "ready for a new challenge." This loan deal appears to be the perfect opportunity for him to gain regular playing time and regain his form. His absence from United's last 12 matches has weighed heavily on his confidence.
Aston Villa, currently eighth in the Premier League, also has Champion League aspirations, having performed well enough to qualify for the last 16 for the first time since 2022. This could provide Rashford the platform to once again showcase his talent on European soil.
With the recent upswing of Rafael Benitez's side under Emery, it seems the 27-year-old would step straight back onto the pitch with plenty of motivation to rejuvenate his career. If he manages to flourish at Villa, this move may even lead to interesting conversations about his future at Old Trafford.
For United, loaning out Rashford provides twofold benefits: alleviating their salary expenditure on him and offering him the chance to regain his form away from the intense scrutiny associated with being at such a high-profile club. Unai Emery has expressed his support for Rashford, emphasizing hope for him to reach his potential.
With the transfer deadline looming and both clubs eager to finalize arrangements, all eyes will be on Villa Park to see if this move happens, and what repercussions it might hold for both Rashford and Manchester United.