Aston Villa is expected to compete with Paris Saint-Germain this summer to sign Marcus Rashford.
Sources indicate that the Premier League club is eager to make Rashford`s current loan from Manchester United a permanent move.
Villa manager Unai Emery has reportedly informed club executives of his confidence in Rashford`s positive mindset and believes his acquisition would significantly improve the team.
A potential hurdle is Rashford`s high salary. However, Villa hopes to convince him to accept reduced wages for a move that could revitalize his career both at the club level and for the England national team.
Emery, who took the initiative to bring Rashford on loan, is a strong admirer of the player.
According to sources within Villa, Emery values him so highly that he is prepared to make Rashford the primary striker if Ollie Watkins departs during the summer transfer window.
Watkins has been consistently linked with a transfer away from Aston Villa, with Arsenal showing strong interest.
Rashford was on the verge of joining PSG before his loan to Aston Villa. Discussions are ongoing with the French club, particularly after Villa`s 3-1 defeat to PSG in the Champions League quarter-final first leg.
L`Equipe reports that Rashford was very close to joining Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2022.
PSG reportedly intended for the England international to replace Neymar in their starting lineup.
It is understood that at least three meetings occurred between PSG representatives and Rashford`s team.
Negotiations progressed favorably with Leonardo, then PSG`s sporting director, and Rashford reportedly agreed to the transfer to Ligue 1.
However, the deal collapsed in May of that year when PSG dismissed Leonardo. It is believed that had Leonardo remained, Rashford would likely be playing for PSG now.
Sources indicate that talks have resumed between Rashford and Luis Campos, Leonardo`s successor at PSG.
Prince William and his son George were present in Paris to watch Villa`s recent game against PSG. Villa will host PSG in the second leg next Tuesday.
