Unai Emery
Aston Villa is gearing up for a crucial January transfer window as they aim to bolster their squad amidst a busy schedule. With seven fixtures lined up, including Europa League and FA Cup matches, manager Unai Emery is keen to strengthen his options. Villa has enjoyed a strong run, winning 17 of their last 20 matches since their first victory against Bologna. However, with potential player departures and limited budget constraints, strategic decisions are essential.
Unai Emery said: “We are alert. The club is working, and if we can sign someone to help us and improve on something we need, we will do it. But for the second half of the season, with the same players, of course, we can improve. Our mentality has been really important – how the players are taking responsibility, being mature, and playing together with the energy we need. We can sign players, but we can’t spend a lot. But we can do something, of course. Maybe also change someone. Last year we signed four players in January and let others leave.”
A key player who might be on the move is Leon Bailey. The Jamaican winger, currently on loan at AS Roma, has struggled with fitness, making only 10 appearances. Roma holds a £19 million option to purchase Bailey, but it’s unlikely to be activated. Villa might explore interest from Saudi Arabian clubs, which had shown interest before his Roma stint. Similarly, Louie Barry’s loan at Sheffield United could be cut short due to injury and lack of form, as confirmed by United’s manager, Chris Wilder.
Chris Wilder said: “Louie Barry has got a bit of an issue with his knee, so we are in discussions about terminating Louie’s loan. That’s obviously disappointing for him, but we need fit and healthy footballers as well, given the way we play. Financially, we also need to free up some money to use elsewhere, even though I have had really positive conversations with the board about their enthusiasm in backing my ambitions and our suggestions as a recruitment team to improve in January.”
Harvey Elliott is also expected to leave Villa and return to Liverpool, necessitating attacking reinforcements. Brazilian winger Alysson is set to join from Gremio, but his immediate role remains uncertain. While he is seen as a prospect, Emery’s pressing need is for a goal-scoring centre-forward to support Ollie Watkins, especially given Watkins’ impactful performances off the bench against Tottenham and Chelsea.
Villa’s right-back position also poses a dilemma, with Emery seemingly hesitant to rely on Andres Garcia. The young Spaniard, who joined from Levante, made his first appearance of the season against Arsenal. With budget constraints, Villa must be judicious in their recruitment, ensuring any new signings meet the high standards set by players like Matty Cash.
In conclusion, Aston Villa faces a pivotal January transfer window. With potential player sales and strategic signings, Emery aims to maintain the team’s momentum while addressing key areas for improvement.
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