Manchester United look set to finally offload Marcus Rashford after a month-long negotiation process and surprisingly, the Mancunian seems to be headed to Aston Villa.
It seemed like Barcelona was his club of choice after he revealed his desire for a new adventure but Unai Emery’s persuasion and the Catalan giants’ indecision ultimately seem to have made the decision for him.
With Antony having already departed on loan, Ruben Amorim could be left short of options up front given the poor form in front of goal of Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee.
Which is why the Portuguese has asked INEOS for help and it seemed like the club was focussing on trying to get a deal for Mathys Tel of Bayern Munich over the line in the closing stages of the January window.
United looking at Bailey
The 19-year-old has already turned down Tottenham Hotspur, preferring the option of moving to Old Trafford where he could earn immediate minutes.
But now, The Athletic have claimed that the young Frenchman is not the only option being eyed with Aston Villa’s Leon Bailey also being considered.
“Bayern Munich’s Mathys Tel and Aston Villa’s Leon Bailey are options being considered by Manchester United ahead of Monday’s transfer deadline.
Manchester United are weighing up offensive options to replace Marcus Rashford, with Leon Bailey among those discussed. Separate to Rashford loan.
Mathys Tel + Christopher Nkunku also considered as short-term replacements.
w/ @J_Tanswell ⬇️ #MUFChttps://t.co/hKCN3xLmZz
— Laurie Whitwell (@lauriewhitwell) February 1, 2025
“Any move for Bailey would be separate from Marcus Rashford’s proposed loan move to Villa for the remainder of 2024-25. While Rashford predominantly plays as a left-sided attacking player, Jamaican international Bailey operates on the right flank.”
Nkunku also an option
The Jamaican enjoyed a fantastic season last time out, netting 14 goals and registering as many assists but has not really got going this time around.
While the Red Devils have not started discussions with Villa, they are only looking at a loan deal for the 27-year-old should Emery allow him to leave.
Journalist Laurie Whitwell also claimed that Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku also remains a loan option but the Frenchman has other suitors as well.
Whether a deal for Nkunku means the Blues open up talks for Alejandro Garnacho remains to be seen. Amorim has made it clear he does not want to lose the Argentine.
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
