Marcus Rashford Man United transfer exit takes another twist as shock pathway explained

Aston Villa are considering a move to sign Marcus Rashford from Manchester United before the end of the January transfer window. The 27-year-old has fallen out of favour at Old Trafford having been left out of the squad for the last 12 matches under Ruben Amorim.

Rashford, who last featured during a 2-1 win over Viktoria Plzen on December 12, prefers a move to Barcelona and has set that as his 'dream' move. However, Barca's damning financial situation and inability to create salary space is making a deal unlikely this month.

Due to this, Rashford might have to pursue alternatives and Villa are among those that have joined the race for the England international. According to The Athletic, Villa are contemplating making an offer to sign Rashford as they prepare to lose striker Jhon Duran to Al-Nassr.

Emiliano Buendia is also expected to leave Villa with the midfielder edging closer to a loan move to Bayer Leverkusen, meaning Unai Emery's men need reinforcements. And a transfer that would see Rashford move to Villa on loan is possible before Monday's 11pm deadline.

Chelsea's Joao Felix and Paris Saint-Germain's Marco Asensio are among the others Villa are considering. The club and Emery have long-standing interest in both players. Villa have already signed forward Donyell Malen from Borussia Dortmund this month but are now expected to add another attacker.

As for Rashford, his future is uncertain after expressing his desire to depart United in December. After he was left out of the matchday squad to face Manchester City, Rashford told journalist Henry Winter that he was "ready for a new challenge and the next steps" - hinting at a move away.

Rashford has shown little enthusiasm for other potential suitors such as West