Marcus Rashford statement released as Aston Villa decide on Man Utd transfer
Aston Villa have deciding on signing Man Utd forward Marcus Rashford permanently.
Aston Villa have confirmed that Marcus Rashford has returned to Manchester United following a short loan spell at the club last season. Unai Emery opted against triggering the £40million buy option in Rashford's contract, leaving his future up in the air ahead of pre-season.
The 27-year-old's exit is also likely linked to his desire to complete a switch to Barcelona, of which he has made no secret. Barca are currently prioritising a swoop for Athletic Club winger Nico Williams but are reportedly interested in signing Rashford later in the summer.
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On Monday, Villa announced that Rashford had departed along with Marco Asensio, Axel Disasi, Robin Olsen and Kortney Hause.
"Everyone at Aston Villa would like to thank each of the players for their efforts and amazing commitment to the club and wish them all the very best for the future," the statement concluded.
Rashford scored four goals and provided six assists in 17 appearances on loan at Villa after escaping a United exile under Ruben Amorim.
The academy graduate missed 12 matches after Amorim suggested he was not willing to meet his demands.
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Rashford was reportedly holding out for Barcelona in January, but the La Liga champions could not conjure up the funds to facilitate a deal.
It remains to be seen whether the United No. 10 will be involved with Amorim's squad when pre-season begins at Carrington on July 7.
Other loanees, Antony, Jadon Sancho and Tyrell Malacia, join Rashford in heading for the exit door, but all three are also set to return next week.
Rashford is believed to be eyeing a new challenge overseas rather than remaining in the Premier League, even if a move to Barcelona fails to materialise again.
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United have focused their early summer transfer dealings on replacing their outgoing forwards, with Matheus Cunha already through the door in a £62.5m deal.
Bryan Mbeumo is set to join him once United strike a deal with Brentford, who have already rejected two offers for their star man.
Amorim reportedly also wants a new striker, but any move strongly relies on the sales of Rashford and his attacking counterparts.
Business is expected to pick up from July 1 onwards when the new annual PSR window opens.
