Aston Villa and Paris Saint-Germain are set to compete for Marcus Rashford this summer.
Sources indicate that the Premier League club is eager to finalize a permanent transfer for the England star, currently on loan.
Manager Unai Emery has expressed confidence to Villa management that Marcus Rashford is keen on the move and believes his signing would elevate the club`s performance.
A potential hurdle is Rashford`s current salary. Villa hopes to convince him to accept reduced wages for a move that could revitalize his career both at the club level and with the England national team.
Emery, who took the initiative to bring Rashford on loan, reportedly holds him in high regard.
It`s understood from Villa sources that Emery is prepared to position Rashford as the primary striker, particularly if Ollie Watkins departs during the summer transfer window.
Watkins has been consistently rumored for a move away from Villa Park, with Arsenal reportedly maintaining a strong interest.
Prior to his loan to Aston Villa, Rashford was on the verge of joining PSG and remains in discussions with the French club, who recently defeated Villa in the Champions League.
Reports from L`Equipe suggest that the versatile forward was very close to transferring to Paris in the summer of 2022.
Paris Saint-Germain apparently envisioned Rashford as a replacement for Neymar in their starting lineup.
It`s believed that at least three meetings occurred between PSG representatives and Rashford`s agents.
Negotiations progressed positively under the then sporting director Leonardo, with Rashford seemingly agreeing to a move to Ligue 1.
However, the transfer reportedly fell through in May of that year after PSG dismissed Leonardo. It is speculated that had Leonardo remained, Rashford might now be playing for the French champions.
Despite the previous setback, sources indicate that discussions between Rashford and Luis Campos, Leonardo`s successor as sporting director, have been reopened.
Prince William and his son George were among the spectators in Paris watching Villa`s recent match against PSG. The return leg is scheduled to take place at Villa Park next Tuesday.
Marcus Bellamy