Why Aston Villa might struggle to keep hold of Marcus Rashford with Barcelona still keen on Man Utd outcast

Rashford saw a major shift in his form following his loan move from United to Villa in the January transfer window. The English forward has regained his confidence and has impressed almost everyone at Villa Park, including manager Unai Emery. The Spanish coach is reportedly keen on retaining the services of the Red Devils flop beyond the current campaign, but Fabrizio Romano, in his column for GiveMeSport, has explained why the Villans might struggle to retain the player.

Aston Villa have the option to trigger the £40 million ($49m) buy-out clause in Rashford's contract, but their biggest concern remains Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules, which will be settled once the club get a clear picture of the race for the European slots in the Premier League. The striker's £350,000-per-week wages are also one of the factors that could dictate the Villans' final call on the transfer.

While Rashford's future at Villa Park remains uncertain, Barcelona are still keen on signing the England international. Sporting director Deco and manager Hansi Flick are reportedly admirers of the forward, and the Blaugrana could consider making a move for the United flop. However, that may well depend on whether Ansu Fati decides to exit the club in the summer.

Rashford may have played his last game for the Villans. The hamstring injury he picked up in the build-up to Villa's FA Cup semi-final defeat by Crystal Palace will likely keep the attacker on the sidelines for at least the next few weeks.