Marcus Rashford could return to Aston Villa this summer as his Barcelona loan expires, with the Manchester United forward's future still uncertain
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona(Image: Europa Press via Getty Images)
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Unai Emery is reportedly eager to bring Marcus Rashford back to Aston Villa in the summer transfer window, which could present a dream scenario for Manchester United.
The England international has spent the current campaign on loan at Barcelona, but the La Liga giants are not, at this stage, in advanced talks to sign Rashford on a permanent deal this summer.
Mundo Deportivo have reported that Villa are keeping a watchful eye on developments, with manager Unai Emery said to be willing to spend part of the club's transfer budget on signing Rashford once again.
This could provide a dream scenario for United, with Villa's reported interest potentially creating a bidding war that could force Barcelona to act on their interest to sign Rashford.
A further loan spell in Catalonia could still appeal to Rashford, who had originally set his sights on joining Barcelona before completing his move to Villa in February last year.
The report further suggests that Villa are waiting to gauge United's stance ahead of a potential summer swoop for the 28-year-old.
Rashford netted four goals and chipped in with six assists across 17 appearances during his brief loan spell at Villa during the second half of last season.
This campaign, the England international has contributed 13 goals and 13 assists in 45 outings for Barcelona under manager Hansi Flick.
With 10 goal contributions in 11 Champions League matches — including a brace against Newcastle United in September — Rashford's form has caught the eye at Barcelona this season.
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Having missed the closing weeks of last season through injury, Rashford was unable to help Villa secure a top-five finish and a return to the Champions League.
The day after Villa's defeat at Old Trafford on the final day of the campaign, Rashford took to Instagram to post a farewell message.
"Just a message of thanks to everyone here at Villa for what has (injury aside) been an incredible few months for me," Rashford said.
"It is a really special club and I appreciated the way Villa fans embraced me with open arms from 1st minute on the pitch.
"Manager, team, and coaching staff have all been brilliant. I know it is a huge disappointment not to have made the Champions League place which everyone worked so hard all season for but I know this club and team will come back stronger."