Marcus Rashford’s uncertain Barcelona future reportedly leads Aston Villa to pursue his arrival

Marcus Rashford’s future at Barcelona has been thrown into doubt after a dip in form that has prompted the Catalan club to reconsider triggering his €30 million buy-out clause, paving the way for Aston Villa to explore a move for the England forward.

Rashford arrived at the Spotify Camp Nou on loan last summer and quickly emerged as a central figure in Hansi Flick’s attack, registering 10 goals and 13 assists after being handed an extended run of games following Raphinha’s early-season injury. A subsequent knee contusion sidelined him for almost two months, however, and his offensive output has dried up since his return.

Diario Sport reports that Barcelona’s sporting department now intends to reassess Rashford’s performances during the campaign’s final stretch before committing to the permanent transfer. Officials are even weighing up another loan arrangement, although Manchester United are understood to be reluctant to extend the temporary deal.

While Barcelona hesitate, Aston Villa have identified Rashford as a primary target. According to Sports Boom, Villa had been attempting to persuade Jadon Sancho to make the switch to the West Midlands, but Borussia Dortmund’s continued involvement in negotiations has complicated that pursuit. Unai Emery’s side have consequently redirected their attention to Rashford, believing his early-season exploits in Spain prove he can provide an immediate attacking lift.

Convincing the 26-year-old to return to England will not be straightforward. Rashford has repeatedly stated his desire to remain at Barcelona, but Villa hope Emery’s personal intervention can sway him should the Blaugrana ultimately walk away from the buy-out clause.

Flick, meanwhile, insists Rashford is now back to full fitness and plans to feature him prominently in the run-in, giving the forward a final opportunity to recapture the form that once made him indispensable. With time running out, Rashford must rediscover his scoring touch to erase Barcelona’s reservations and keep alive his dream of a permanent move to Catalonia.