Aston Villa remain active in the transfer market after finalising deals for Matteo Ruggeri and Zion Suzuki, investing around £50 million in the pair.
Ruggeri, the left-back, is expected to be confirmed imminently as the long-awaited replacement for Lucas Digne, who departed for Paris Saint-Germain after his release clause was activated earlier this summer. The 22-year-old defender is set to join from Atlético Madrid, leaving Spain after just one season under Diego Simeone.
Simultaneously, Villa are close to completing a £30 million move for goalkeeper Zion Suzuki from Parma. However, Emi Martinez’s anticipated transfer to Juventus has stalled and is now unlikely to proceed. Martinez appears set to be the next high-profile exit from Villa this summer, joining several other departures such as Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans, and Digne following last season’s Europa League success.
READ MORE: Three New Employment Rules Proposed to Protect Four Million Workers
In terms of replacements, Villa have bolstered their midfield and attacking options by bringing in Joao Gomes for Tielemans and Johan Manzambi for Rogers, alongside acquiring Alejandro Garnacho on loan with an obligation to buy.
Despite these acquisitions, Villa feel they remain light in attacking quality. Pre-season showed promising signs from Alysson, yet the club had previously been tracking Endrick before Real Madrid confirmed they would retain the Brazilian international at least until January before reconsidering his future.
A proven right winger from a top European league remains a priority to add depth behind current options including Garnacho, John McGinn, Emi Buendia, Alysson, and Manzambi.
On the defensive flanks, Villa anticipate further movement. Kosta Nedeljkovic has attracted loan interest after Andres Garcia’s arrival at Getafe on loan this July. Moreover, with Matty Cash needing reinforcement at right-back, Aston Villa are reportedly targeting Aaron Wan-Bissaka as the summer window approaches its final fortnight.
Additionally, coverage is required for the injured Amadou Onana, who is expected to miss most, if not all, of the upcoming season following an ACL injury sustained during the World Cup. Joao Palhinha has emerged as a primary target, with Bayern Munich open to loaning the midfielder for a fee.
Upfront, Tammy Abraham’s departure remains a possibility before the transfer window closes. However, Villa could rely on Brian Madjo to back up Ollie Watkins, potentially freeing up funds to prioritise strengthening other squad areas that require attention.
In summary, after their recent high-profile signings, Aston Villa plan to complete at least three more transfers to reinforce the right wing, right-back, and central midfield positions effectively before the summer window shuts.