Villa interested in loan deal for Rashford

Aston Villa are one of a number of clubs interested in Manchester United’s out-of-favour striker Marcus Rashford.

Since being dropped by head coach Ruben Amorim for the Manchester derby on December 12th, the 27-year-old has not featured for United.

Amorim claimed on Wednesday that Rashford would make his team better if he were there, but the player had not upheld the standards he demanded of his team.

In an effort to gauge interest, Rashford’s representatives have met with a number of top European clubs recently.

With the hours ticking down to Monday’s 23: 00 GMT deadline, numerous sources have confirmed Rashford’s future is yet to be decided, amid significant interest from the Premier League and further afield.

Although it hasn’t been completely discounted, he might still be able to stay at Old Trafford, but a loan move is still far more likely than that at this time.

Although it’s unknown if there has been formal contact with United or whether Rashford would want to move, Villa are one of the interested clubs.

Following their top-eight finish in the league phase, Villa do have the benefit of being able to offer Champions League football in March, but Barcelona could also benefit from this.

The La Liga giants are thought to be Rashford’s preference, although there has been no clarity over their ability to strike a deal. A key element of a resolution with any club would be Rashford’s wages – he is one of United’s highest earners, with a salary in excess of £300, 000 a week.