Aston Villa are aiming to finalize their transfer business before the February 3 deadline, with significant squad changes on the horizon under manager Unai Emery and sporting director Monchi. The Villans have already secured a high-profile signing, Dutch international Donyell Malen, and more transfers are expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
Malen Arrives, Philogene Departs
Donyell Malen joined from Borussia Dortmund in a £20 million deal, reinforcing Villa’s attacking options. His arrival coincided with Jaden Philogene’s transfer to Ipswich Town for a similar fee. While Unai Emery values Philogene’s potential, the manager acknowledged that Malen’s acquisition made Philogene’s departure a sensible move. Emery stated:
“We want to be ready to improve the squad, and sometimes players leave for different reasons. We are focused on making the right moves until the final day of the window.”
Further Additions and Departures
Villa are close to finalizing a £6 million deal for right-back Andres Garcia from Levante. The highly-rated youngster has excelled in La Liga 2 and is viewed as a player who can develop rapidly under Emery’s guidance. Meanwhile, young defender Kosta Nedeljkovic is expected to leave on loan to gain first-team experience.
The club is also targeting Sevilla center-back Loic Bade to replace Diego Carlos, who is set to join Fenerbahce. Despite recently signing a contract with Sevilla until 2029, Bade could be sold due to the Spanish club’s financial struggles. Monchi, who previously signed Bade for Sevilla, is keen to reunite with the defender to strengthen Villa’s backline.
Potential Departures: Buendia, Barry, and Olsen
Emi Buendia could leave this window to find regular game time after recovering from a lengthy ACL injury. Emery has hinted that moving elsewhere could help the Argentine rediscover his confidence.
Louie Barry’s future is also uncertain, with Celtic reportedly preparing a seven-figure bid to sign the youngster. A decision is expected soon, with Villa weighing the possibility of a loan or permanent transfer.
Robin Olsen is attracting interest from Copenhagen, which could influence the future of goalkeeper Joe Gauci. If Olsen departs, Gauci is likely to remain as a backup option for the second half of the season.
Young Talent in Focus
Villa are actively pursuing promising players Yasin Ozcan and Tidiam Gomis to bolster their youth setup. These signings align with Emery’s strategy to prepare for both immediate success and future growth.
Squad Projection After the Transfer Window
Assuming the deals are finalized, here’s how Villa’s squad could shape up by February:
- Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martinez, Robin Olsen, Oliwier Zych
- Defenders: Matty Cash, Andres Garcia, Ezri Konsa, Pau Torres, Loic Bade, Bogarde, Tyrone Mings, Lucas Digne, Ian Maatsen
- Midfielders: Boubacar Kamara, Amadou Onana, Youri Tielemans, John McGinn, Ross Barkley, Jacob Ramsey
- Forwards: Leon Bailey, Donyell Malen, Rogers, Ollie Watkins, Jhon Duran
Aston Villa are balancing their squad effectively while ensuring they adhere to financial sustainability. Monchi’s expertise and Emery’s tactical vision are shaping a dynamic transfer window that could position the team strongly for the second half of the season. With a mix of experienced signings and emerging talent, Villa fans can be optimistic about the club’s trajectory.