Latest developments
- Marcus Rashford has big plans for the summer transfer window.
- Rashford would prefer to join Barcelona over Aston Villa.
- Villa have option to turn his loan move into a permanent deal.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3.5/5): Rashford eyes Barca switch
Marcus Rashford has rediscovered his mojo at Aston Villa and is hoping his improved form will attract interest from top European clubs. His dream move in January was Barcelona and he would prefer to switch to Camp Nou in the summer.
That is according to talkSPORT, who are pretty reliable when it comes to Premier League-related transfer updates.
Value (4/5): Price tag likely to remain the same
Manchester United handed Aston Villa the option to buy Rashford permanently for £40million at the end of the season. Fair to assume, his other suitors would be quoted the same figure if and when they knock on Old Trafford's doors.
Suitability (4/5): Difference maker
When the England superstar is on song, he is simply a menace for defenders, owing to his immense pace and aggressive dribbling style, as seen against Paris Saint-Germain most recently. The 27-year-old appears ready for another chance at the big stage, having played a direct hand in eight goals for the Lions since February.
Upgrade? (4/5): Competition for Raphinha
While Rashford has been impressive, Raphinha has been simply incredible for Barcelona this term. However, considering the Englishman's talent, he would provide a strong competition for the Brazilian, who is only now starting to show his skill sets consistently. Rashford is versatile enough to lead Barca's frontline as well.
Logic (3.5/5): Plenty of cards on the table
Villa not only face potential competition from Barcelona, but they also have to overtake Paris Saint-Germain in the race to secure Rashford's services. The Ligue 1 giants have been his long-term admirers and are thought to be interested in him heading into the summer.
Whisper+ verdict: 19/25
While Rashford dreams of joining Barcelona, he will still have to do a lot from now until the end of the season to ensure top clubs show concrete interest in him.
