Aston Villa have officially entered what’s expected to be one of the most critical and transformative transfer windows in the club’s recent history.
New manager Unai Emery worked wonders with the squad he had at his disposal last campaign, guiding his side to Europa Conference League qualification, but he’s set to demand a mass exodus over the next couple of months.
Some decisions – perhaps up to five of them – are clear but decisive action is yet to be taken for the most part. Villa fans shan’t panic, though, as Emery has a plan and was recently joined by the experienced Monchi, who has come in as the new President of Football Operations.
With that in mind, here are the five major transfer calls we think will be made over the near future, including some that will raise a few eyebrows.
Emery made it very clear in January that he wanted a new wideman with “different characteristics” to what the squad already has. Jacob Ramsey did a brilliant job at the tail end of last term, but the manager desires a talent with disparate attributes for the other flank.
Leon Bailey and Bertrand Traore had moments when they shined but others when they went completely missing. John McGinn did superbly on the right when needed, but he’s not an out-and-out winger.
Instead, Villa are expected to delve into the market for someone a bit more direct and agile, perhaps with more of a creative streak than the current crop. The names linked so far have all been rather expensive, too, displaying Emery’s ambition.
Harvey Barnes is a potential as he was relegated with Leicester City last season and isn’t willing to drop down to the Championship. Villa face competition for the Englishman, however, with Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur both interested.
Another option seemed to be Athletic Bilbao wonderkid Nico Williams, but the 20-year-old has reportedly decided to sign a new contract with the La Liga outfit. Gerard Deulofeu was previously on the list, but his recent injury struggles have moved him off the radar.
One name that could be one to seriously watch is Sporting Lisbon star Pedro Gonçalves. The Portugal international has a huge €80 million (£68.8 million) release clause but was one of the biggest stars for the past three campaigns.
