Agbonlahor hits back at Simon Jordan with shock Aston Villa transfer close

Gabriel Agbonlahor has hit back at Simon Jordan as Aston Villa close in on a move for Marcus Rashford.

After a remarkable breakthrough in negotiations on Saturday 1 February [Manchester Evening News] the agreement between the Premier League sides is "close to being sorted" with a confirmation expected soon [Neil Moxley].

However, talkSPORT host Jordan has been vocal of his criticism of the Englishman, prompting ex-Villa man Agbonlahor to defend the impending transfer via X (1 February).

Writing: "[Unai] Emery can help Rashford's mentality! Everyone deserves a second chance Simon! Up the Villa Lord Jordan!!!!"

Marcus Rashford is a statement signing for Aston Villa

Despite his ongoing woes at Manchester United, Rashford's arrival at Villa Park is a testament to how far the side has come under Emery.

The Villans' transfer plans have sparked into life in the final days of the transfer window, with Jhon Duran completing a blockbuster £71million move to Saudi Arabia giants Al-Nassr.

Arsenal also saw a "stunning offer" for Ollie Watkins rejected, as per Sami Mokbel, before the 4-2 win against Celtic in the Champions League on Wednesday (29 January).

However, Rashford would arrive to play alongside his England teammate rather than compete with him, also offering a top-level squad rotation option to lead the line.

Emery has yet to replace Moussa Diaby, who also completed a shocking move to Saudi Arabia, forcing captain John McGinn to operate on the flanks in the first half of the season.

Therefore, Rashford can revitalise his career in his best position on the flanks, allow McGinn to revert into a central role and help elevate Aston Villa to the next level with Champions League knockout football ahead.

The gravity of this transfer is lost on Jordan - it certainly won't be, come the end of the season.

In other Aston Villa news, Jhon Duran will "return to the Premier League" after Villa exit.

For more Aston Villa news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.