Unai Emery is reportedly keen to bring Marcus Rashford back to Aston Villa this summer, according to reports from Spain. The Manchester United forward has spent the current season on loan at Barcelona, but the Catalan giants are not, at this stage, willing to sign him permanently.
Another loan move to Catalonia could appeal to Rashford, who initially wanted to join Barcelona before moving to Villa in February 2025. However, Mundo Deportivo claims that Villa are also keeping a close eye on the situation, with Emery reportedly willing to pay a transfer fee. The report adds that Villa are waiting to understand United's position ahead of a possible summer move for the 28-year-old.
Rashford's Impact at Barcelona
This season, the England international has scored 13 goals and provided 13 assists in 45 appearances under Hansi Flick. With 10 goal contributions in 11 Champions League matches — including a brace against Newcastle United in September — Rashford has largely impressed at Barcelona this season.
During his short loan spell at Villa in the second half of last season, Rashford scored four goals and provided six assists in 17 appearances. However, after missing the final weeks of the campaign due to injury, he could not help Villa secure a top-five finish to return to the Champions League.
A Farewell Message
The day after Villa lost at Old Trafford on the final day of the campaign, Rashford took to Instagram to send a farewell message. He wrote: "Just a message of thanks to everyone here at Villa for what has (injury aside) been an incredible few months for me. It is a really special club and I appreciated the way Villa fans embraced me with open arms from 1st minute on the pitch. Manager, team, and coaching staff have all been brilliant. I know it is a huge disappointment not to have made the Champions League place which everyone worked so hard all season for but I know this club and team will come back stronger."
With Villa now monitoring the situation closely, a summer reunion between Emery and Rashford could be on the cards, depending on Barcelona's stance and United's willingness to sell.
