With the La Liga trophy already locked away for the season, FC Barcelona is turning its full attention to shaping the squad for the 2026-27 campaign. Among the key decisions on the table is the future of Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford—and it appears Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is ready to push hard to bring him back to Villa Park.

According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, Emery is a serious admirer of the English winger, who spent the second half of the 2024-25 season on loan at Aston Villa. Rashford’s time under Emery was solid, and with Villa still in contention for a Champions League spot, the manager is eager to reunite with the player this summer.

However, Rashford’s heart seems set on staying in Catalonia. The 27-year-old is determined to exhaust every option to remain at Spotify Camp Nou, whether via a permanent transfer or another loan deal. Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has already given his blessing for Rashford to continue, impressed by the winger’s contributions this season—14 goals and 12 assists, a significant boost to the Blaugrana’s attack.

The only lingering question within the Barcelona camp is how well Rashford has fully grasped the team’s tactical system and style of play. Still, his numbers and overall impact have made a strong case for keeping him around.

On the financial side, Barcelona is keen to avoid triggering the €30 million purchase clause in Rashford’s loan deal. Instead, the club is exploring another loan arrangement. But Manchester United, who hold Rashford’s contract until 2028, have made it clear they are not open to another temporary move. A return to Old Trafford also seems unlikely, even with Michael Carrick reportedly set to take over as permanent manager.

For now, the ball is in Barcelona’s court—but with Emery pushing hard from the wings, this summer’s transfer saga is far from over.