Aston Villa have clear path to resurrect £25m groundbreaking transfer coup after major Liverpool news

Aston Villa have enjoyed another extraordinary season under Unai Emery and are becoming all the more attractive of a club to join as the months go by.

The Villans are firmly in the Premier League top five fight, exceeded all expectations in the Champions League by reaching the quarter-finals and could yet win the FA Cup as they are preparing for a semi-final clash with Crystal Palace. All of these achievements have boosted the allure of the football club.

Emery’s focus certainly remains on ending the current season on a high but one eye - at least that of Monchi’s - is already on 2025/26 with future transfers being planned. It’s common knowledge at this point that there’s an option to buy Marcus Rashford permanently from Manchester United for £40 million, while Marco Asensio could also join for the long term from Paris Saint-Germain, but other positions could also be strengthened.

One area Emery is keen to improve is the centre of defence. Axel Disasi joined on an expensive £5 million half-season loan deal from Chelsea in January and he could theoretically re-sign for longer, but many alternative options are on a shortlist and being considered.

Aston Villa could reignite £25m transfer pursuit

Villa tried and failed with a winter attempt to reinforce at centre-back as a bid in the region of £25 million was understood to be accepted by Sevilla for Loic Bade, but the Frenchman rejected the move.

The reasons behind the refusal were unclear but Villa could reignite their interest in the summer if they are to qualify for the Champions League again. Staying at Sevilla would mean no European football whatsoever given their current 14th-placed standing in La Liga, so a summer transfer could be tempting for Bade.

The 25-year-old has been going from strength to strength since joining Sevilla in 2023, quickly establishing himself as one of the most talented defenders in La Liga. Even during a tough season for the Rojiblancos, Bade has been a shining light, making 26 league appearances and starting 81 per cent of matches. He recently received his first senior France call-up in recognition of his fine form.

Major Liverpool news paves the way for Aston Villa

If Villa do try again for Bade, there will likely be competition as interest in the defender is widespread. One positive, at least, is the fact Liverpool, previously reported to be interested, are now unlikely to join the fight due to some significant news.

After months of speculation, the Reds have finally tied down Virgil van Dijk to a new two-year contract. The 33-year-old, widely regarded as one of the best central defenders in Premier League history, was due to depart Anfield at the end of June but his future has been decided in Liverpool’s favour.

Arne Slot was assessing his options in case Liverpool would have to sign a replacement for Van Dijk, but that’s no longer a requirement. It can’t be ruled out that the Reds look to add further depth and quality at centre-back but it’s less likely now Van Dijk has extended his stay.