'The next step ahead' - Unai Emery makes first Aston Villa transfer hint before summer window

The Villans are set for a busy summer after qualifying for next season’s UEFA Champions League. The depth of the squad was tested to its limits in the Europa Conference League but next season will be a different kettle of fish, especially with the new format changes.

It won’t be an expensive few months, however, as Villa are walking the financial fair play tightrope under the Premier League’s strict profit and sustainability rules. Everton and Nottingham Forest recently received points deductions for violations, so Villa are doing all they can to stay onside.

For big-money signings to be made, some will first have to leave. It’s unlikely the best of the best will depart but it’s expected that funds will be raised from the exits of several fringe players. Regardless, there will inevitably be some incoming action and Emery has finally alluded to that.

Villa were thrashed 5-0 by Crystal Palace on the Premier League’s final day but the focus in the days preceding the game were not on the trip to Selhurst Park. Instead, Emery, Monchi and the rest of the boardroom are already planning for next season.

“We have to decide about how we are going to build again the squad with the players. Like last year, like the last transfer window in January,” Emery admitted during Sunday’s post-match press conference.

“We are going to decide how we can get stronger in the squad with the player but of course, believing in how we are building the team, how we are doing our process. The next step ahead is trying to improve this summer,” Emery said.

Not only do Villa need to consider transfer business before next season, but also the returns of several key players from injury. Tyrone Mings, Emiliano Buendia, Boubacar Kamara and Jacob Ramsey will all feel like new signings when back in action, giving the Villans a huge boost.

Rest is also important. Many will be off to the 2024 European Championships in Germany but those who aren’t will have many months to recover from what has been an incredibly busy and fatiguing season. The refresh will have an effect nearly as significant as fresh faces.