Unai Emery call could convince Marcus Rashford to return to Aston Villa

Marcus Rashford's hopes of securing a permanent move to Barcelona have suffered a setback, but Aston Villa could yet emerge as a serious option if Unai Emery decides to intervene.

The Manchester United forward is set to return to Old Trafford after Barcelona opted not to activate their €30m purchase clause following a successful loan spell in Spain.

While Rashford still dreams of returning to Camp Nou, reports suggest one person could change his mind: Aston Villa manager Unai Emery.

Rashford enjoyed an impressive campaign with Barcelona after joining the Spanish giants on loan last summer.

The England international contributed 14 goals and 14 assists in 49 appearances while helping the club win the La Liga title.

Despite those numbers, Barcelona chose not to trigger the €30m option included in the agreement with Manchester United.

Reports from Spain claim Rashford was even prepared to accept a salary reduction in order to remain in Catalonia.

However, the overall financial package involved in a permanent transfer proved difficult for Barcelona to justify.

As things stand, Rashford remains hopeful that another route back to Camp Nou could emerge later in the transfer window.

Manchester United's position appears clear.

The club reportedly have no intention of sanctioning another loan move and would prefer to secure a permanent transfer this summer.

Michael Carrick's side are understood to view Rashford as surplus to requirements and want to generate a transfer fee from his departure.

That stance could complicate Barcelona's hopes of revisiting the deal.

However, reports suggest United may become more flexible if Rashford remains unsold towards the end of the window.

Should no buyer emerge before August, the possibility of alternative arrangements could increase.

While Barcelona remain Rashford's preferred destination, reports indicate Aston Villa have not been ruled out entirely.

The forward enjoyed a productive spell under Emery during his previous loan at Villa Park and retains a strong relationship with the Spanish coach.

According to reports in Spain, a direct call from Emery could significantly alter the situation.

The suggestion is that Rashford would seriously consider returning to Villa if personally convinced by the manager.

Having followed Emery's work throughout his managerial career, one of his greatest strengths has always been his ability to rebuild confidence in talented players whose careers have stalled elsewhere.

Rashford is viewed as one of several examples of that ability.

There appears to be some uncertainty regarding Villa's transfer plans.

Recent reports have suggested the club would be willing to pay a reasonable fee for Rashford, while other claims indicate they would only consider a deal if a transfer fee was not required.

Regardless of the financial details, the crucial point is that no formal move has yet been made.

Neither Villa nor Emery have taken concrete steps towards a reunion.

That means Rashford remains focused on Barcelona for the time being.

Rashford's future is unlikely to be resolved immediately.

Barcelona continue to monitor the situation, while Manchester United remain determined to secure a permanent transfer.

If no breakthrough occurs in the coming weeks, Aston Villa could become increasingly relevant, particularly if Emery decides to make direct contact with a player who thrived under his management.

For now, Rashford's priority remains Spain, but the door to Villa Park appears far from closed.

Would Marcus Rashford be better off returning to Aston Villa under Unai Emery or continuing to pursue his Barcelona dream?