Aston Villa are nearing an agreement to secure Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford on loan ahead of Monday’s transfer deadline.
The former England international is poised for a medical at Villa Park, BBC Sport reported on Sunday, adding that Villa are set to sign Spain midfielder Marco Asensio on loan from Paris St-Germain until the end of the season.
The chance to play under Villa manager Unai Emery is believed to be a key factor in attracting 27-year-old Rashford.
The United academy product has not played since being dropped by head coach Ruben Amorim for the Manchester derby on 12 December.
Amorim’s recent comments highlighted his dissatisfaction with Rashford’s commitment.
The Portuguese coach even suggested last week that he would prefer to give a bench spot to his 63-year-old goalkeeping coach rather than the England international, citing a perceived lack of effort.
Despite these criticisms, Amorim acknowledged Rashford’s talent during a press conference on Wednesday, stating: “Imagine a talent like Rashford, our team should be so much better with him – but he has to change. If he changes, we are more than welcome [to include him] – and we need it. But in this moment we have to set some standards. We are waiting for Rashford, if he wants it really bad.”
Aston Villa are closing in on a loan deal for Marcus Rashford ✍#BBCFootball
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) February 1, 2025
Rashford, who has been with Manchester United since he was seven, has racked up over 400 appearances for the club.
His achievements include winning the Europa League, two FA Cups, and two EFL Cups. Under Amorim’s tenure, he initially made an impact, scoring in a 1-1 draw against Ipswich on 24 November and netting twice in a 4-0 win over Everton the following week.
However, Rashford was omitted from the squad for United’s 2-1 win against Manchester City on 15 December. He later expressed his desire for a “new challenge”.
In this transfer window, Villa have already added Spanish full-back Andres Garcia from Levante and Dutch forward Donyell Malen from Borussia Dortmund to their squad.
On the outgoing side, Colombian striker Jhon Duran has joined Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Nassr in a deal that could rise to £71 million.
Villa have also turned down an offer from Arsenal for England striker Ollie Watkins.
