Report: Ian Wright backs Marcus Rashford for explosive Newcastle move

The Arsenal legend's bold prediction comes as Rashford's sparkling loan spell at Aston Villa has clubs circling, though doubts persist over a permanent move to Villa Park.

Rashford, 27, left United in January 2025 after being sidelined by manager Ruben Amorim, his last appearance a Europa League tie against Viktoria Plzen in December 2024.

At Villa, he has rediscovered his form, notching four goals and six assists in 17 games under Unai Emery. A recent X post from @DeadlineDayLive, cited a source close to Rashford saying he has "never been happier," crediting Emery's leadership for his resurgence.

Wright, speaking on his Ringer FC podcast, championed Newcastle as Rashford's ideal next destination. "It's the kind of signing Newcastle should be making," he said. "Rashford at Newcastle can be dangerous. That would be really good."

On a potential United return, Wright was clear: "No chance."

Newcastle, riding high after their Carabao Cup win and chasing Champions League football, could provide Rashford the stage he craves. Sources suggest he prioritizes a club in Europe's elite competition, with Barcelona also mentioned, though his 300,000-pound-a-week wages are a hurdle.

Yet, Liverpool icon Graeme Souness has questioned whether Villa should commit to the 40-million-pound option to buy Rashford.

In the Daily Mail, Souness said: "Can you trust him? Has he really done enough? Aston Villa are a huge football club that have to be in the Champions League, and you need players you can rely on." He raised concerns about Rashford's off-field issues that led to his United exit.

Emery has praised Rashford's impact, saying after a recent match: "I am so happy with him, he is performing very well." However, on a permanent deal, he remained cautious: "It is difficult to plan now. It depends on the circumstances."

Villa's call may rest on their Premier League standing, with a top-five finish key for Champions League qualification. Manchester United, meanwhile, are open to a swap involving Villa's Ollie Watkins, who has lost his starting role to Rashford.

With Rashford's camp ruling out a United return and a decision due by mid-June, his next move is set to dominate the summer transfer window.