Marcus Rashford has reportedly seen a 'dream move' to Barcelona collapse, with a switch to the Catalan outfit in the latter stages of the January transfer window now seen as 'practically impossible'.
The 27-year-old was widely expected to leave Manchester United on loan during the winter market, but with the deadline fast approaching, he remains at Old Trafford, and the situation is at a standstill.
The likes of AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund are no longer in the race, but Barcelona had been viewed as genuine contenders for the forward in the latter stages of the market despite their financial problems.
Barcelona are believed to be Rashford's 'dream club', with the England international prioritising a move to the Catalan outfit over any other team, but it was always going to be complicated due to the La Liga outfit's financial issues.
According to Relevo, a switch to Barcelona at this stage is viewed as 'practically impossible', as the Catalan side have been unable to make the necessary space in their squad.
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Aston Villa 'join the race' for Rashford
Aston Villa have allegedly emerged as genuine contenders, with Unai Emery's side looking for a replacement for Jhon Duran, who is heading for Saudi Arabia to join Al-Nassr.
At this stage, it is understood that no offer has been made, but Villa are keeping a close eye on the situation and believe that they can tempt the Red Devils academy product to make the switch to Villa Park.
Rashford has not turned out for Man United since December 12, with the forward being overlooked by Red Devils head coach Ruben Amorim due to poor performances in training and his general demeanour at Carrington.
Amorim has continued to insist that the door is open for Rashford but has said that the academy product will not be selected until he shows improvement and that has not been the case.
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Could Rashford stay at Man United?
"With our team and the profile of the players, imagine with a talent like Rashford, our team should be so much better," said Amorim ahead of Thursday's Europa League clash with FCSB. "But he has to change.
"If he changes, we will use a talent like Rashford, but at this moment we have to set some standards. We are waiting for Marcus if he wants it really badly. It's not personal against Marcus - I have to make the same rules for everybody.
"It's the same for any player. Rashford is not selected, that is my choice. He's training, he's not good enough, that's what I tell you. We are a better team with Marcus, that is clear. He is a big talent, but until it is the right moment, I will not change my mind."
With the situation at a standstill, Rashford could stay, but it is very difficult to imagine a route back for him at Old Trafford, and it would suit both parties if a departure could be agreed in the final stages of the market.
Matt Law
