Marcus Rashford completed a dramatic move from Manchester United to Aston Villa, with the 27-year-old forward set to undergo a medical on Sunday.
The deal, which initially sees Rashford join Villa on loan until the end of the season, also includes an option for the Premier League side to make the transfer permanent for a pre-agreed fee of £40 million.
Rashford has already agreed to personal terms with Villa for the duration of his loan spell, and it is understood that the Midlands club will cover 70% of his substantial £350,000 weekly wages. In addition to the wage agreement, the loan package includes performance-related bonuses, including incentives for Villa progressing in European competitions and qualifying for the Champions League next season. The forward has not featured for United since mid-December, after a fallout with manager Ruben Amorim, and will now look to reignite his career at Villa Park.
This move comes after a difficult period for Rashford at Old Trafford. The England international, who has scored 138 goals in 426 appearances for United, has missed the last 12 matches due to a combination of injury and disciplinary issues. The tension with Amorim over his commitment and lifestyle led to the forward being sidelined, marking the end of his long association with the club where he started his career at just eight years old. Rashford has already said his goodbyes to teammates and staff at United, signaling the end of his chapter at the club and the beginning of a new venture at Villa.
Advertisement
Latest Press Conference
We’re on Social Media
Aston Villa’s need for attacking reinforcements became even more urgent this week after Jhon Duran completed a £65 million move to Al-Nassr, leaving a gap in their forward line. Duran had been Villa’s leading scorer this season with 12 goals. In addition, Ollie Watkins, another key forward for Villa, suffered an injury scare in their 2-0 loss to Wolves, leaving the club even more in need of attacking depth. Villa manager Unai Emery is looking to strengthen his squad and believes Rashford can offer the quality and experience needed to make an impact.
The signing of Rashford is seen as a significant coup for Villa, but some, like former England midfielder Jamie Redknapp, have expressed concerns about the risk involved. Redknapp pointed to Rashford’s inconsistent form in the past two years, after a standout season in 2022-23. He emphasized that the player’s commitment and work ethic would be key to whether this move can rejuvenate his career. Redknapp noted that Rashford’s recent performances have not been up to the standard expected of a player of his pedigree, with moments of apathy in key games drawing attention.
Despite the criticisms, this move represents a fresh start for Rashford, and Villa will be hoping that their faith in the forward pays off. For Rashford, the opportunity to revive his career and prove himself in a new environment could be just what he needs. The next chapter in his footballing journey will be pivotal, as he seeks to rediscover the form that once made him one of the most exciting young talents in European football.
