Transfer: Marcus Rashford Set to Leave Manchester United Before Transfer Deadline

Marcus Rashford is reportedly close to leaving Manchester United, with a loan move to Aston Villa imminent, while the Red Devils have signed Ayden Heaven from Arsenal.

Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, who has fallen out of favor, is reportedly close to joining Aston Villa on a loan deal, according to Saturday's reports. This development comes after Villa sold Colombian striker Jhon Duran to Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr on Friday, creating a void in their attacking lineup.

Rashford, 27, has been linked to several top-tier clubs, including AC Milan and Barcelona, while his representatives have also held discussions with Tottenham and West Ham during the January transfer window. A temporary move to Villa Park could provide Rashford with the opportunity to revive his reputation, which has suffered significantly over the past two years.

Aston Villa, who are aiming to challenge for a top-four finish in the Premier League and compete in the Champions League last 16, could greatly benefit from a revitalized Rashford. With a point to prove, Rashford's addition could bolster Villa's attacking options and provide a significant boost to their ambitions. Villa manager Unai Emery is likely to face questions about the potential signing of Rashford ahead of his side's Premier League clash against Wolves on Saturday.

Marcus Rashford has been seeking a departure from Old Trafford since expressing his desire for a “new challenge” after being dropped by Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim for the Manchester derby in December. The England star has been absent from all 12 of United's games since then, with Amorim seemingly losing patience with Rashford. This was evident when Amorim jokingly stated that he would rather name the club's 63-year-old goalkeeping coach in the squad.

Amorim recently emphasized that Rashford would need to drastically change his ways to end his exile. However, it now appears that Rashford will get his wish to leave United before Monday's transfer deadline. In a separate development, Manchester United have announced the signing of England Under-19 international Ayden Heaven from Arsenal. The transfer is reportedly worth over £1 million in compensation to the Gunners.

🚨🟣🔵 Marcus Rashford has agreed personal terms with Aston Villa! Deal imminent after initial green light in the morning.

Understand Villa and United are closing in on loan deal, discussing buy option clause.

Emery called Rashford, player attracted by project & UCL football. pic.twitter.com/KrAXusR4Ic

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 1, 2025

Eighteen-year-old centre-back Heaven has signed a contract with United until 2029, with the option of a further year. He was in the final six months of his scholarship terms at Arsenal and rejected the opportunity to sign a professional contract with the north London club. Heaven made his Arsenal debut in the League Cup against Preston earlier this season. United have confirmed that Heaven will be “immediately” linking up with Amorim's squad.

“I am incredibly proud to join Manchester United,” Heaven exclaimed. “I'm grateful to everyone who helped make this dream a reality. There is so much that I want to achieve in the game. I'll be giving everything to continue my development and become the best player that I can be.”