Manchester United have several key decisions to make this summer regarding the futures of multiple players, including Marcus Rashford. The homegrown forward was loaned to Aston Villa during the winter transfer window after falling out of favour under Ruben Amorim and spending over a month sidelined from the squad. Rashford struggled to find form at United this season, but his loan spell has offered a fresh start.
At Villa, the 26-year-old has started to regain confidence, recently netting twice in a commanding 3-0 win over Preston. Manager Unai Emery is reportedly growing fond of Rashford, but any permanent decision regarding his future will likely hinge on which European competition Villa qualifies for next season.
A costly affair
Aston Villa might have to shell out around £130 million to land Manchester United star Marcus Rashford.
Aston Villa face £130 million problem in signing Manchester United star Marcus Rashford (Via X)
Aston Villa have the option to sign Marcus Rashford permanently in the summer for a fee of £40 million. However, according to Football Insider, the deal could prove financially challenging, as the total cost of signing the Englishman could exceed £130 million over five years once wages are factored in. Rashford currently earns £350,000 per week at Manchester United, a significant portion of which is being covered by Villa during his loan spell.
Any club pursuing a permanent move would need to commit to that substantial financial package. Unai Emery has already stated in a press conference that a decision on Rashford’s future will only be made at the end of the season. So far, the 26-year-old has scored five goals in 21 Premier League appearances in the 2024/25 season, a rather modest return. However, he has shown signs of returning to his best at Villa Park.
Rashford’s blistering pace, flair, and ability to produce spectacular goals make him a game-changer on his day. His dribbling and versatility, capable of operating both out wide and centrally, keep defences constantly guessing.
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However, his inconsistency and recent dip in form have left many Manchester United fans frustrated. If Aston Villa choose to activate the £40 million option to sign him permanently after the loan, it could present United with the perfect opportunity to cash in and move on. The funds could go toward refreshing the squad—potentially bringing in a more reliable finisher or a consistent creative presence—while offloading Rashford’s hefty £350,000-a-week wages would also ease financial pressure. This would give Ruben Amorim more room to reshape the squad into a leaner, hungrier unit for the future.
Ultimately, much will depend on Rashford’s performances for the remainder of the season and whether Villa secure a place in European competition. Until then, the future of the United academy graduate remains uncertain.