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.
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5. CB: Andreas Christensen (in from Barcelona, £20m)
Villa are looking for a new central defender and Barcelona have reportedly transfer listed Christensen for around £20 million. The former Chelsea man is of interest to Villa and could play on either side. He's also brilliant at playing out from the back. | Getty Images
6. LB: Ian Maatsen
Signed from Chelsea last summer for £37.5 million, Maatsen has finally shown signs of his potential in recent months. Lucas Digne, who fell behind Maatsen in the pecking order at the end of the season, could be sold for PSR and SCR reasons as he's on £120,000 per week. | Getty Images
7. CM: Boubacar Kamara
Seen as one of Villa’s most indispensable players, Kamara is expected to sign a new contract before long as talks are ongoing. Emery loves the physicality and awareness the Frenchman possesses. | Getty Images
8. CM: Youri Tielemans
The winner of both player of the season awards, Tielemans has been in incredible form. No outfield player racked up more minutes for Villa throughout 2024/25 than the Belgium international, who has become untouchable. | Getty Images