Aston Villa have officially confirmed they will not trigger the £40 million buy option clause for Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford.
The clause was part of the initial terms agreed during discussions surrounding a potential transfer earlier this summer.
With Villa stepping back from the deal, Rashford will now return to Manchester United, where his future remains uncertain.
The £40 million valuation remains available to any other club interested in signing the England international during the current transfer window.
Rashford, who endured a difficult 2024/25 campaign, had been linked with a move away from Old Trafford in search of a fresh start. While Villa showed early interest, the Midlands club have opted against finalising a deal.
Sources close to Villa suggest the decision was based on strategic priorities and financial considerations, with the club focusing on other attacking options ahead of the new season.
Manager Unai Emery is reportedly looking for a different profile of forward to complement his current squad.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are open to offers, with the £40 million tag seen as a fair market value for the 27-year-old, who still has several years left on his contract.
Clubs across Europe are expected to monitor the situation closely.
Rashford’s future will likely be a key storyline this summer as United continue to reshape their squad under the guidance of Amorim Ruben.