Aston Villa have some big decisions to make as they look to make enhancements to their squad in the summer transfer window, all while navigating troubles with the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules (PSR). Unai Emery wants to improve the overall depth and quality in the first team and will target players who have the potential to go on to achieve big things.
Talks are already ongoing to sign Lucas Chevalier from LOSC Lille and discussions are underway to bring in Marco Asensio permanently from Paris Saint-Germain, while it's understood the Villans are eager to sign a new versatile attacker, a central defender and a right-back.
Villa are open to offers for several players this summer, with Emiliano Martinez and Leon Bailey among those who are likeliest to leave the club. Others could depart too, though, as it’s not just PSR that the Villans must deal with but also UEFA’s squad cost ratio rules (SCR). To comply with changes to those regulations, Villa need to reduce their wage bill.
With all of that in mind, Birmingham World has taken a look at seven sensible transfers Villa complete this summer, with players who fit the current style of play and would fit Emery’s transfer criteria. Here is a look at the hypothetical line up for next season.

1. Aston Villa's potential new starting XI for 2025/26
Aston Villa's lineup could look very different in 2025/26 after a host of transfers. | Lineup Builder

2. GK: Lucas Chevalier (in from Lille, £40m)
Villa could complete two transfers in the goalkeeping department by selling Emiliano Martinez and buying Lille's Lucas Chevalier. The 23-year-old Frenchman made more saves than any other goalkeeper in Ligue 1 last term and was the division's Goalkeeper of the Year. | AFP via Getty Images

3. RB: Andres Garcia
Although he may not start the season in the XI, Garcia is expected to enjoy a breakthrough in 2025/26. It's understood that the Villa hierarchy are delighted with the Spaniard's progress and see him as the future starting right-back. | Getty Images

4. CB: Ezri Konsa
The new England international was superb throughout 2024/25 and became the first defender on the team sheet. Konsa will be determined to keep up his fine work to remain in the international setup for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. | Getty Images
