Manchester United were linked with a surprise loan move for Ruben Loftus-Cheek earlier this week but Aston Villa are now sniffing around the former Chelsea midfielder
Aston Villa are said to have made an enquiry for Ruben Loftus-Cheek – just days after the former Chelsea midfielder was ‘offered’ to Manchester United.
Loftus-Cheek, 29, is no stranger to Premier League teams after coming through the academy ranks at Stamford Bridge and boasts over 150 top-flight appearances to his name from his time with the Blues and loan spells at Crystal Palace and Fulham. The midfielder, who was handed an England recall by Thomas Tuchel last September, moved to AC Milan in the summer of 2023.
Loftus-Cheek has gone on to make over 90 appearances for the Italian giants but could be loaned out this month after falling down the pecking order at the San Siro, with Villa now considering a move to bring him in.
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest news, analysis and much more on Mirror Football’s Facebook page.
READ MORE: Transfer news LIVE: Arsenal make Nwaneri U-turn, Liverpool target Real Madrid star, Man Utd suffer blowREAD MORE: Man Utd send perfect Jonny Evans response after brutal Roy Keane rant
The Athletic report that Boubacar Kamara’s serious knee injury – which is likely to keep the Frenchman out for the rest of the season – may see them attempt to bring in another midfielder on loan, with Loftus-Cheek among those in the frame.
Villa were courting Loftus-Cheek’s former Chelsea team-mate, Conor Gallagher, earlier this month, only for Tottenham to sign the England star from Atletico Madrid in a permanent deal. Loftus-Cheek, if signed, represent a ready-made replacement for the injured Kamara with Premier League pedigree.
The latest developments at Villa Park could have a knock-on affect at Manchester United, who have also been tipped to bring in midfield reinforcements via the loan market.
TalkSPORT claimed earlier this week that United had been ‘offered’ the chance to sign Loftus-Cheek on loan, though it is unclear if the Red Devils have any interest in doing such a deal.
While talks were described as ‘exploratory’, Villa’s interest could force United’s hand into making a decision if they do want to bolster their squad with Loftus-Cheek, who is said to be keen on the idea of a return to the Premier League.
Manchester United are expected to focus on an overhaul of their midfield in the summer, where they will also decide on a new permanent head coach after handing Michael Carrick a contract which runs until the end of the season.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us – and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL package
Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, saving members £192 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.
Sky will show at least 215 live Premier League games next season, an increase of up to 100 more.
