What's behind Marcus Rashford's sudden desire to leave Manchester United for Aston Villa on loan?

By: Shawn
Marcus Rashford, Manchester United misfit, is close to agreeing to a loan move to Aston Villa before the winter transfer window ends.

According to The Athletic, Villa have made "significant progress" in their loan bid for Rashford and are now close to agreeing on a deal. Unai Emery's team is currently working on the financial parts of the deal, including how to pay Rashford's high salary, with the attacker reportedly keen in the transfer since it will allow him to play Champions League games with the Villans.

'Marcus Rashhford.'
Getty Images

Manager Ruben Amorim has kept Rashford out of the United squad, stressing that the Englishman "has to change" if he wants to return. Rashford has said that he is "ready for a new challenge" and might potentially be given one at Villa Park. Emery has "personally requested" that his team attempt to acquire Rashford and believes he can help the attacker regain his best form following a tough period at United. The agreement is believed to contain a buy option, which means it might become permanent at the end of the season.

Rashford's last Manchester United appearance came in the Europa League against Viktoria Plzen in early December. He has not appeared in any of the team's previous 12 games and may have played his final appearance for the club.

Manchester United and Villa have until the end of Monday, February 3, to finalise a deal for Rashford. Villa have already signed Donyell Malen from Borussia Dortmund, but they have lost Jhon Duran to Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr.

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