Done Deal: Aston Villa Strikes £89.5M Agreement for Marcus Rashford in Stunning Transfer
In one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer, Aston Villa have reached a serious agreement with Manchester United to sign Marcus Rashford for a staggering £89.5 million**, marking a historic moment in both clubs’ recent history. The deal, which is nearing official confirmation, signals Aston Villa’s ambition to compete at the highest level, both domestically and in Europe.
Villa’s Ambitious Move
Sources close to both clubs have confirmed that negotiations, which had been underway quietly for several weeks, accelerated significantly in early June. Despite competition from top European sides including Barcelona and Inter Milan, Aston Villa has moved decisively to secure Rashford’s signature ahead of the new season.
Rashford, 27, spent the second half of the 2024/25 season on loan at Villa Park after falling out of favor at Manchester United. During his short spell under Unai Emery, he quickly found form, playing a vital role in Villa’s top-four Premier League finish and helping them reach the Champions League quarter-finals. His performances reignited interest in him as a top-tier talent—something Villa did not hesitate to capitalise on.
A New Era for Rashford
The winger’s move to Villa represents a fresh start after a turbulent year at Old Trafford. Following a decline in form and confidence under Erik ten Hag and a series of off-pitch distractions, Rashford found himself relegated to the bench or omitted entirely from the United squad. That all changed once he arrived at Villa, where he rediscovered his spark, scoring six goals and providing five assists in just 14 appearances.
Rashford was also reportedly keen on staying at Villa, impressed by the club’s upward trajectory, clear tactical identity, and positive dressing-room environment. According to reports, he has already agreed to personal terms, and Villa will structure the £89.5 million fee in instalments to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations.
United Ready to Let Go
Manchester United, under new sporting director Dan Ashworth, view the sale as an opportunity to reshape their squad and reduce the wage bill. Rashford was among the club’s highest earners, and United are now expected to reinvest the funds in younger, hungrier talent.
A club statement is expected once formalities are completed, but sources suggest there is mutual respect between Rashford and United, with the player departing on amicable terms after over 10 years of service.
Gabby Agbonlahor Voices Caution
Despite the excitement surrounding the move, not all former Villa players are convinced. Club legend Gabby Agbonlahor warned recently that signing Rashford permanently could “disrupt the wage structure” and risk “upsetting the balance in the dressing room.” However, Villa’s board seems confident the signing will pay off on and off the pitch, especially with Champions League football on the horizon.
Unai Emery reportedly played a key role in persuading both Rashford and the club hierarchy to push for the deal, highlighting the forward’s versatility, European experience, and ability to win matches in tight moments.
This move is yet another signal of Aston Villa’s growing intent to challenge the Premier League’s traditional “big six.” Backed by a strong ownership group and guided by the steady hand of Emery, Villa are now assembling a squad capable of not only competing but winning at the highest level.
Rashford, meanwhile, will be looking to relaunch his career in claret and blue, with hopes of regaining his place in the England squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Once the deal is officially announced—expected in the coming days—Aston Villa will have pulled off one of the most sensational signings in their modern history. And for Marcus Rashford, this could be the perfect platform to remind the football world of just how good he can be.
