Marcus Rashford to Aston Villa is ON! Man Utd outcast closing in on loan move to end nightmare under Ruben Amorim

Villa have made "significant progress" in their bid to land Rashford on loan and are now close to agreeing a deal for the 27-year-old, according to The Athletic. Unai Emery's side are now working on the financial aspects of the deal, including how to cover Rashford's huge wages, with the forward said to be interested in the move as he will be able to play Champions League football with the Villans.

Rashford has been frozen out by manager Ruben Amorim at United, with the boss explaining the Englishman "has to change" if the wants to return to the squad. Rashford has said he's "ready for a new challenge" and could now be handed one at Villa Park. Emery has "personally requested" his side try to sign Rashford and thinks he can help the forward find his best form again after a difficult spell at United. The deal is expected to include a purchase option, meaning it could be made permanent at the end of the season.

Rashford's last appearance for Manchester United came against Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League in early December. He has not featured in any of the team's last 12 games and may have already played his last match for the club.

Manchester United and Villa have until the end of Monday, February 3, to clinch a deal for Rashford. Villa have already signed Donyell Malen from Borussia Dortmund but have since lost Jhon Duran to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr.