(Credit: Imago)

Aston Villa 'can swoop in' as Marcus Rashford twist emerges

Pranav is a sports journalist who over nine years of experience working inside newsrooms, including but not limited to News Associates, The Non League Paper, HT Media Group, VAVEL, Sportskeeda, Chichester Observer and Eastbourne Herald. He has graduated from St. Mary’s University, London, in Sports Journalism (MA). He specialises in news related to takeovers, club finances and injuries.

Published on:

13 Jul 2025, 12:00 pm

Manchester United attacker Marcus Rashford is wanted by both Aston Villa and Barcelona this summer.

The 27-year-old moved to Villa Park for the second half of last season on loan.

He did well under Unai Emery's stewardship but returned to Old Trafford following the expiry of his loan spell.

Unai Emery is pushing for Rashford in this transfer window. (Credit: Imago)

Barcelona may pursue Chelsea attacker Christopher Nkunku

Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg claimed on 13 July that Barcelona are actively pursuing Rashford's services on loan.

It's understood that the 27-year-old is enthusiastic about moving to the Camp Nou and has given preliminary approval for the transfer.

However, no agreement has been reached with Manchester United.

Barcelona are also considering Christopher Nkunku as an alternative target and the decision now rests with the Spanish side's hierarchy.

🚨🔵🔴 FC Barcelona are still targeting Marcus #Rashford, as revealed. However, Barcelona are currently only considering a loan.

Understand that Rashford is very open to joining Barca and has already given an initial green light for the move.

It now depends on Barca. There is… pic.twitter.com/kRYXmwQLv0
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) July 13, 2025

Aston Villa can look to swoop in for Rashford

If Barcelona prioritises Nkunku over Rashford, it could open a window for Aston Villa to secure the Manchester United attacker.

Nkunku’s versatility and proven goal-scoring record prior to his Chelsea move may align better with Barcelona’s tactical needs under Hansi Flick, potentially sidelining Rashford.

Club	Appearances	Goals	Assists
Man Utd	426	138	77
Aston Villa	17	4	6

Rashford's career stats.

This scenario benefits the Villa Park outfit, who, under Unai Emery, are pushing for top-four contention.

Rashford’s pace, directness and experience would complement Villa’s dynamic attack, alongside Ollie Watkins.

Even a permanent transfer may fit Villa’s budget and it remains to be seen if the England international fancies a move there.

Emery’s track record of reviving players’ form, as seen with Watkins, could rejuvenate Rashford, who needs a permanent move away from Old Trafford.

The fact that they can offer him European football makes them an attractive destination for the 29-year-old forward.

However, it is also prudent for them to consider alternatives, as the attacker is not entirely sure of moving to the Birmingham outfit this summer.

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Marcus Rashford