Marcus Rashford is playing the waiting game to decide his future.
After two difficult seasons struggling to rediscover his best form at Manchester United, Marcus Rashford fell out of favour with Ruben Amorim.
Amorim made it clear that he wasn’t including Rashford in his plans earlier this season, so it made sense for the 27-year-old to look for a new club in January, albeit temporarily.
Rashford eventually joined Aston Villa on loan and has since made 17 appearances for Unai Emery’s side, scoring four goals and assisting six. His latest goal came last night in a 2-1 defeat against Man City.
It remains to be seen if Villa will take up the option to sign Rashford for £40m at the end of the season, but they would have to convince the player, too.
Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty ImagesMarcus Rashford preference over future revealed
There is no denying that Rashford has enjoyed his stint at Villa, but he has yet to drop any hints about staying at the club.
After being recalled to the England squad by Thomas Tuchel in March, Rashford continued to work his way into the Villa line-up. He is now starting games ahead of Emery’s top scorer Ollie Watkins.
Rashford has five games left to play for Villa before his loan deal ends, but The Guardian understands that a decision won’t be made until mid-June.
It is understood that Rashford has two preferences when it comes to his future.
After returning to the Champions League with Villa, Rashford wants to leave United for another club that is competing in Europe’s most prestigious competition.
The other preference is not joining a team based in London.
Although United have been linked with a swap deal including Watkins, Rashford’s representatives have reportedly rubbished these claims due to the complexities involved in such a deal.
Rashford can boost Man Utd summer transfer strategy
It is no secret that Ineos are planning a squad overhaul this summer.
United are relying on player sales to raise funds for recruits, so there will be a push to get rid of players who are surplus to requirements.
The Guardian suggest Rashford is unlikely to play for United while Amorim is the head coach due to a breakdown in their relationship.
Furthermore, United are looking to use to money from Rashford’s sale to help their summer transfer strategy.
Fellow United loanee Antony faces the same fate ahead of the summer transfer window, although United are expecting plenty of interest in his signature.
Chelsea are also obligated to sign Jadon Sancho for between £20m-25m, which means more money for Amorim to strengthen his squad.