Aston Villa are flying high in the Premier League under Unai Emery’s inspired leadership. The Villans have secured 10 consecutive victories across all competitions, sparking conversations about their potential to challenge for the title.
Their recent 2-1 triumph over Manchester United has extended their lead over fourth-placed Chelsea to seven points, setting up a crucial encounter with the Blues this weekend. A positive result at Stamford Bridge would boost Villa’s hopes of Champions League qualification and intensify talk of a title race.
With the January transfer window fast approaching, speculation around Villa’s transfer activity is heating up. Here’s the latest on two key stories from Villa Park.
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Harvey Elliott, who joined Villa on loan from Liverpool on deadline day, was seen as a major coup. The deal reportedly includes a £35 million obligation to buy after a certain number of appearances. However, the 22-year-old has made just seven appearances across all competitions and has not featured in a Premier League matchday squad since October, raising questions about his immediate future.
Reports suggest that Villa’s agreement with Liverpool does not include a recall clause. While ending the loan deal early is possible, the Liverpool Echo indicates that Liverpool may have already factored Elliott’s sale into their financial plans. If the loan were terminated, Elliott would return to Anfield but would be unable to play for a third team this season due to registration rules. This could provide Liverpool with valuable squad depth amid injury issues affecting key players like Alexander Isak, Cody Gakpo, and Wataru Endo.
Meanwhile, Emi Martinez might have found himself playing for Manchester United this season if transfer plans had unfolded differently. Instead, United opted to sign Senne Lammens, and Martinez remained with Villa. Initially open to a move away, the 33-year-old has since fully embraced his role at Villa.
Following Sunday’s win over Manchester United, Martinez celebrated passionately in front of the Holte End, donning a Villa-themed Santa hat. As fans sang his name, he kissed the club badge on the hat before tossing it back into the crowd. He has since won over Villa supporters, appearing in 13 league matches with four clean sheets this season.
Martinez’s standout moment against United came with a crucial one-on-one save from Benjamin Sesko. He will be eager to replicate that commanding performance when Villa face Chelsea this weekend.