Man Utd sent clear message about swap deal as Marcus Rashford decision 'causes fury'

A former player has expressed doubts over 's attitude, following claims of a potential swap deal involving . Watkins has been in exceptional form for this season, netting 16 goals and setting up 13 more across all competitions.

Rashford, who moved to Villa on loan in January, has shown glimpses of his former brilliance under the guidance of . The Daily Star now reports that United are eager to part ways with the 27-year-old this summer after he fell out of favour at Old Trafford under . Villa have the option to make Rashford's move permanent for £40million, and it is believed that .

Club executives are reportedly contemplating offering Rashford plus a substantial cash sum in return for Watkins. However, ex-United goalkeeper Ben Foster has dismissed the idea that Emery would sanction such a deal, citing concerns about Rashford's demeanour during the first leg of Villa's recent Champions League match against PSG.

Despite Rashford's impressive performance in the second leg at Villa Park, Foster described him as being "miles off" the pace in Paris.

On his '' podcast, he said: "I think a lot of people saw him against PSG the other night and were like, 'Oh my god, that's Rashford.' That's what you want from him and there were glimpses, I totally agree. During the first leg though, he was miles off it and he didn't really look happy again.

"I just think it's too risky for Aston Villa and I don't think Unai Emery would sanction it. He's on so much wages wise at Man United, I think they are going to try and sell him because they need him for PSR [profitability and sustainability rules]. I don't think Amorim really wants him around the place and he doesn't suit the system."

While on loan, Rashford appears to have caught the eye of Emery, who has preferred him to Watkins in numerous instances of late. Watkins had been in the starting line-up for only one game out of the last six before Villa's face-off with on Saturday.

Upon his return, the striker swiftly made his mark by scoring within minutes, contributing to Villa's 4-1 victory over the Magpies. After the, the 29-year-old forward expressed his dissatisfaction at not playing lately.

"I let [Emery] know that. He's the manager at the end of the day. I respect his decision. But I'm not one of the players happy to sit on the bench," Watkins said.

Watkins was previously on 's radar during the January transfer window, but a move away from Villa was ultimately thwarted. Foster said that the player had every right to be upset after criticising Emery's handling of him.

"I don't like the way Watkins has been dealt with," he said. "I understand why he'd be fuming, because he had a potential move to Arsenal where Villa said, 'No, we love you so much. We want you around and we're going to reject this bid'.

"Then they go and bring Marcus Rashford in, and for the biggest game in the club's modern history, they put him on the bench. It would leave a really s*** taste in your mouth."