Man Utd weigh up bringing in Aston Villa hitman in swap for Rashford

Manchester United are weighing up a move for Aston Villa winger Leon Bailey before the January transfer window closes.

With Marcus Rashford set to complete a loan switch to Villa, United are keen to bring in an attacking replacement before Monday’s deadline.

Rashford’s move will see Villa cover 70% of his £325,000-a-week wages, with an option to make the transfer permanent for £40 million in the summer.

United have already approached Bayern Munich regarding a loan deal for Mathys Tel, who recently rejected a move to Tottenham.

However, according to The Athletic, Bailey has now emerged as another potential target, with United open to a loan deal should Villa make him available.

The 27-year-old was instrumental for Villa last season, contributing 10 goals and nine assists in the Premier League.

However, his form has dipped this campaign, with just one league goal and two assists to his name. Bailey originally joined Villa from Bayer Leverkusen in a £25 million deal in 2021.

Speaking after Villa’s 2-0 defeat to Wolves on Saturday night, manager Unai Emery confirmed the club is looking to strengthen its squad with three new signings before the window closes.

"We have to replace Diego Carlos, we have to replace Emi Buendia, and we have to replace Jhon Duran," Emery said.

"It’s not easy because we don’t want to sign players who won’t help us in the way I want. We are being demanding and intelligent."

Villa have already secured a loan deal for Marco Asensio from Paris Saint-Germain, while Rashford is scheduled to undergo his medical on Sunday.

With time running out, United will now decide whether to push ahead with a move for Bailey or explore alternative attacking options.