Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford is reportedly close to joining Aston Villa on loan, with the move expected to be completed before Monday’s transfer deadline. The England international has struggled for form and consistency, prompting speculation over his future at Old Trafford.
Villa moved for Rashford after selling Colombian striker Jhon Duran to Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr on Friday. While Rashford had also been linked with AC Milan, Barcelona, Tottenham, and West Ham, it appears Villa have emerged as the frontrunners for his signature.
A loan spell could provide Rashford with a fresh start after a turbulent period in his career. With Unai Emery’s side pushing for a top-four finish in the Premier League and competing in the Champions League last 16, Villa could benefit from a reinvigorated Rashford eager to prove himself.
Rashford’s situation at United deteriorated after he was dropped by manager Ruben Amorim for the Manchester derby in December. Since then, he has not featured in any of the club’s last 12 matches. Amorim’s frustration with Rashford was evident when he jokingly suggested that United’s 63-year-old goalkeeping coach would be more useful to the squad.
The Portuguese coach recently stated that Rashford would need a complete attitude change to regain his place in the team, but it now seems the forward will be granted his wish to leave before the transfer window closes.
Meanwhile, Manchester United have completed the signing of 18-year-old England Under-19 defender Ayden Heaven from Arsenal. The highly-rated centre-back, who was in the final six months of his contract at Arsenal, has joined United for over £1 million in compensation.
Heaven, who made his senior debut for Arsenal in the League Cup against Preston earlier this season, has signed a deal at United until 2029, with an option for a further year.
United confirmed that Heaven will immediately join Amorim’s first-team squad.
