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.
9. CAM: Marco Asensio (in from PSG, £12m)
Villa are understood to have held talks over signing Asensio permanently from Paris Saint-Germain following a successful six-month loan spell. The three-time Champions League winner is entering the final 12 months of his PSG contract and will be available for a bargain price. | Getty Images
10. RW: Morgan Rogers
Linked with the likes of Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea recently, Rogers has emerged as one of Villa’s star players. Emery is unwilling to sell him, though, with the England international firmly in the plans for the future. | Getty Images
11. LW: Jesus Rodriguez (in from Real Betis, £29.8m)
It has become rather public knowledge at this stage that Villa are prioritising signing a new left winger and Real Betis' Rodriguez is one of the top targets. The 19-year-old, who recently played in the Conference League final, is available for just shy of £30 million. | Getty Images
12. ST: Ollie Watkins
Leading the line should still be Watkins, despite links to Porto's Samu Aghehowa. Watkins scored 16 goals and provided eight assists in 38 Premier League matches last term – a worse return than his 2023/24 campaign but still impressive. | Getty Images