The Premier League relegation battle went down to the final day of the 2022-23 campaign in dramatic fashion as Leeds United, Leicester City and Everton knew that just one team out of the three could survive the drop. As it was, Everton’s advantage of an extra point heading into the day proved vital as their narrow 1-0 win over AFC Bournemouth cancelled out any other results elsewhere.
Leeds didn’t manage to get the victory they so desperately wanted against Tottenham Hotspur, whereas Leicester did manage to beat West Ham United but it wasn’t enough. Southampton, who had been confirmed to be relegated some weeks earlier, were joined by Leicester and Leeds as the teams returning to the Championship as a result.
As is the case of most seasons, the best players of the clubs relegated are often poached by teams in the Premier League or abroad – and this term is no exception. If anything, this year’s set of relegated clubs boasts more talent combined than any other trio seen in recent history, meaning there are plenty of quality players potentially up for grabs.
Aston Villa may see this as an opportunity as they will need to build squad depth ahead of their first European campaign in 13 years, with plenty more fixtures added to the calendar. Unai Emery’s revival of the club was fierce and speedy as the Villans finished off a fine run to qualify for the Europa Conference League with a final day victory over Brighton & Hove Albion.
Now, though, they will need to add lots of fresh faces to be able to play at a consistently high level in an array of competitions. With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of the 15 most realistic players Villa could target in the transfer window from Leeds, Leicester and Southampton. Flick through the pages to see our choices.
1. James Ward-Prowse (Southampton)
Recently an England international, everyone knows Ward-Prowse’s capabilities – especially on set pieces. Has been Saints’ captain and arguably their best player for years. Villa are reported to have interest but they will have to battle with Newcastle, West Ham and Wolves.
2. James Maddison (Leicester City)
Another James and another to have put on a Three Lions shirt recently, it goes without saying that Maddison would be a terrific addition. Newcastle and Tottenham look to be leading the race but Villa should really go in for him. Could work very well behind Watkins in the Emiliano Buendia role.
3. Robin Koch (Leeds United)
Plenty of top clubs are linked with Koch as there’s undoubtedly talent there, he just didn’t have the right surroundings at Elland Road. Likely to be available for under £20 million and could be a good backup option to Mings, Konsa and Carlos.
4. Youri Tielemans (Leicester City)
One of the best names out of all those relegated, soon-to-be free agent Tielemans is in high demand but Villa’s Europa Conference League qualification would help their case. Could be tough if teams with Champions League presence show their hands, however.