Aston Villa’s 2023/24 Premier League campaign is currently on pause for the second international break of the season.
Several players will jet off for international duty, including the South American contingent who will travel the furthest, ahead of Villa’s next league match which is against West Ham on Sunday, October 22.
The international break can be a time in which players recover from injury or hope to impress the manager whilst the big-name stars are away with their respective countries.
Could it be a period at all in which some contracts are extended however? This summer has seen several first-team players given new bumper deals. Ollie Watkins is the most recent to commit his future to Unai Emery’s revolution.
The 27-year-old had a week to remember as he was recalled to the England squad and later signed a new contract.
His four goals in eight Premier League matches has made him an attractive proposition for other clubs, and it was reported that both Arsenal and Chelsea had been interested in speaking to him, but that's been put to bed now after he signed fresh terms with the club.
He follows Ezri Konsa, who signed a new deal in September, and John McGinn in the summer who have wanted to remain at Villa Park, after qualifying for the Europa Conference League.
Flick through to see all the Aston Villa players’ contract situations. Do you think Villa should leave things for now, or is there anyone else who they should nail down to a new deal?
1. BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 30: Jacob Ramsey of Aston Villa celebrates teammates after scoring the team's fifth goal during the Premier League match between Aston Villa and Brighton & Hove Albion at Villa Park on September 30, 2023 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)
2. Sil Swinkels
The Netherlands-born defender sees his contract run out in the summer of 2024. He sustained knee ligament damage in March, and was called up to the senior squad following a string of good prformances for the 21’s. Photo: Pete Norton/Getty Images)
3. Nicolò Zaniolo
A season-long loan is to end following the conclusion of the 2023/24 campaign. Villa have an obligation to buy however, and so it should be expected that he remains beyond his loan. Photo: Getty Images
4. Betrand Traore
Signed for £17m back in September 2020, and the four-year contract he signed, is due to expire this summer. Photo: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)