Aston Villa have prepared 'perfect welcome gift' for Marcus Rashford as transfer 'edges closer'

Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford looks to be closing in on a loan move to Premier League rivals Aston Villa.

Rashford, who has been cast aside by head coach Ruben Amorim in recent weeks, had been the subject of interest from Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund across the window.

But both clubs have seemingly failed to agreed terms with the 27-year-old with Unai Emery's side now set to swoop in.

That's according to MEN Sport, who say the Three Lions international will join the Villans on loan until the end of the season.

Rashford has made 24 appearances for the Red Devils this term, netting just seven goals.

It has also emerged that Villa are preparing to roll out the red carpet for Rashford should he join the Midlands-based outfit.

After Emiliano Buendia left the club, Rashford would be able to wear his favoured no.10 shirt at Villa Park.

That's according to Express Sport, who also say Emery is hoping the Manchester United academy graduate can help play a pivotal role in his side.

Villa are currently 7th in the Premier League table and also recently qualified for Champions League last-16 knockout stage.

Man Utd boss Amorim did offer a damning verdict on Rashford just a few days ago, something most Aston Villa fans hope their side can do without.

"Imagine a talent like Rashford, our team should be so much better with him - but he has to change," Amorim said on Wednesday.

"If he changes, we are more than welcome [to include him] - and we need it. But in this moment we have to set some standards. We are waiting for Rashford, if he wants it really bad.

"You [the media] want to make it personal, I have nothing against Marcus, but I have to make the same rules for everybody.

"We need goals, we need [players who can go] one against one, we need threat in the final third."

It isn't the first time Rashford has attracted controversy, with his falling outs with former boss Erik ten Hag also well documented.

The England winger was late to training and has also been spotted in various nightclubs in Manchester across recent seasons.