Rashford’s Villa form fuels Man Utd swap deal transfer talks | OneFootball

Rashford-Watkins Swap Explored as Man Utd Eye Striker Upgrade

Manchester United are considering a summer move – according to Jeremy Cross in the Daily Star – that would see Marcus Rashford head to Aston Villa in exchange for Ollie Watkins, amid growing concerns over their attacking output this season.

Watkins Identified as Key Target by Man Utd

With Sporting CP manager Ruben Amorim widely tipped to take the reins at Old Trafford this summer, identifying a reliable centre-forward has become a pressing priority. Ollie Watkins, who has enjoyed a standout campaign under Unai Emery at Aston Villa, is among the names being seriously considered.

Sources close to the situation confirm that Manchester United have already initiated contact with Villa to explore a possible deal. In a twist that could shape the market, United are prepared to include Marcus Rashford as part of the negotiations.

Rashford Impresses on Loan Spell at Villa

Rashford, 27, made a surprise move to Aston Villa on loan in January and has since flourished in a system that appears to suit his style. He’s registered three goals and six assists, finding consistency that had eluded him at Old Trafford this season.

Interestingly, Rashford has recently been favoured over Watkins in Emery’s starting XI, raising eyebrows around the potential valuation of both players in any future deal.

Villa hold an option to make Rashford’s move permanent for £40 million, but Manchester United are now keen to pivot the talks towards a direct swap — seeing greater value in acquiring Watkins than allowing Rashford to depart for a flat fee.

Champions League Qualification Could Prove Pivotal

Speaking after Aston Villa’s recent European tie against Paris Saint-Germain, Emery addressed Rashford’s future, saying:

His words suggest that Villa’s summer transfer strategy could hinge heavily on securing Champions League football. Should they achieve that objective, retaining Rashford permanently could become more viable — but only if United’s terms align with Villa’s valuation.

Watkins a Proven Performer Amid United’s Striker Struggles

While Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee have shown glimpses of promise, their combined total of six league goals highlights the Red Devils’ need for a consistent, high-output striker.

Watkins, 29, has delivered 15 goals and 12 assists in all competitions this term — a tally that attracted serious interest from Arsenal in January. The Gunners saw a £60 million offer turned down, underlining Villa’s resolve to keep hold of one of the Premier League’s most efficient forwards.

If Amorim is confirmed as manager, Watkins’ profile – hard-working, versatile, and proven at the top level – fits the bill. Whether United can convince Villa to part with their talisman in exchange for Rashford remains the question.