Aston Villa have been a joy to watch this season and have soared to heights way higher than most would've expected, but the progress isn't over yet with much more in the pipeline for the years to come.
Unai Emery is determined to bring major trophies back to Villa Park and wants to play in the UEFA Champions League – an ambition shared by Yashin award-winning goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
Although Villa already have a very talented squad, they may have to delve into the transfer market in order to add some depth in key areas. They may also have to sacrifice one or two with bigger clubs circling.
The transfer rumours are already gaining pace ahead of the January window, so we've decided to take an imaginary look into the future to see how Villa's starting XI could look at the start of February.

5. LB: Alex Moreno
It may be a little harsh to leave Lucas Digne out after such a strong start to the season but Moreno was by far Emery’s preferred option last campaign. The head coach loves having the left full-back as one of the highest players up the pitch. Moreno is quicker and a better dribbler. | Getty Images

6. CM: Douglas Luiz out, Dani Ceballos in
Although unlikely it’ll come to fruition, the links of Douglas Luiz to Arsenal just simply won’t go away. Fabrizio Romano says Luiz is at the top of the Gunners’ shortlist this winter. It would take a significant fee, probably in excess of £70 million. Reports in Spain have been circulating for months that Emery wants to provide Ceballos an exit route out of La Liga after a dramatic drop in game time. It’s said Real Madrid could let the 27-year-old former Arsenal man go for around £15 million and he could be a decent replacement if Luiz does go. | Getty Images

7. CM: Boubacar Kamara
Continuing to improve the longer he spends under Emery’s management, Kamara has been a revelation over the last 12 months or so. Villa look such a better side when he’s playing as he sits in at the base of midfield, allowing his teammates to roam. No need to replace the Frenchman. | Getty Images

8. RM: John McGinn
One of the most consistent and hard-working members of the squad for years now, super John McGinn is doing an outstanding job and more than deserves to be one of the first names on the team sheet. Emery has utmost respect for the Scotsman and is very unlikely to ever consider replacing him in the XI when he’s available. | Getty Images