Aston Villa are gearing up for another transformative summer under the guidance of Unai Emery, who has impressively balanced Premier League performance with European competition aspirations. With the Villans closing in on a Champions League spot and targeting a Europa League final appearance, the upcoming transfer window is crucial for sustaining their rise.
Despite some mixed results in recent transfers—including successful backup signings like Marco Bizot and Victor Lindelof, and less impactful additions such as Evann Guessand and Harvey Elliott—Emery’s strategic approach remains steady. The January signings of Douglas Luiz, Leon Bailey, and Tammy Abraham injected fresh energy, with Abraham making the most significant impact this term.
Looking ahead to the 2026/27 squad, Villa aims to address key areas. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, a fan favorite, is likely to depart following the Europa League final, leaving an important vacancy. Villa could turn to Manchester City’s James Trafford, a talented 23-year-old shot-stopper searching for regular first-team opportunities after a £27 million move to City stalled amidst tough competition. Trafford would join Bizot as a reliable deputy, with academy graduate James Wright as third-choice.
READ MORE: Future of Sedgley Health Centre Secured with Dudley Council’s £1.85m Purchase of Ladies Walk
READ MORE: “I’m Thinking of Quitting parkrun – Frustrated by the Rise of Competitive Attitudes”
Defensively, Villa boasts strong center-back options including Ezri Konsa, Pau Torres, Tyrone Mings, and Victor Lindelof, so urgent additions are not needed here. However, right-back remains a challenge. Matty Cash has excelled, but backup depth is thin. Signing Celta Vigo’s versatile Oscar Mingueza as a free agent could provide valuable competition and offer Andres Garcia the chance to develop on loan. On the left, Ian Maatsen and Lucas Digne continue to vie for starting roles.
Midfield is another stronghold for Villa. When fit, Youri Tielemans and Boubacar Kamara form one of the Premier League’s most formidable duos. Amadou Onana’s improvements add quality depth, while Lamare Bogarde and experienced Ross Barkley provide flexibility. With Douglas Luiz returning to Juventus and Harvey Elliott back at Liverpool, the squad will rely on the likes of George Hemmings to step up. Captain John McGinn remains central, though new competition is on the horizon. Fulham’s Harry Wilson, linked heavily with a Villa move, would offer a fresh attacking threat on the right wing or as a No.10. Rising Brazilian star Alysson continues his development pathway, while Leon Bailey and Emiliano Buendia have moved on.
On the wings, maintaining Morgan Rogers is a priority, alongside new signing Jonathan Rowe, who impressed in Europa League clashes. Upfront, Villa aims to strengthen their strike force with a marquee summer signing in Omar Marmoush from Manchester City—acquired by City for £59 million but yet to secure a regular starting spot. Marmoush’s versatility makes him an ideal candidate to fill the second striker role once held by Moussa Diaby. Leading the line, Ollie Watkins and Tammy Abraham remain key, supported by emerging talent Brian Madjo.
This carefully curated 25-man squad reflects a blend of youth, experience, and tactical depth positioned to challenge for silverware and European success:
Goalkeepers: James Trafford, Marco Bizot, James Wright
Defenders: Matty Cash, Oscar Mingueza, Ezri Konsa, Pau Torres, Tyrone Mings, Victor Lindelof, Ian Maatsen, Lucas Digne
Midfielders: Youri Tielemans, Boubacar Kamara, Amadou Onana, Lamare Bogarde, Ross Barkley
Attackers: John McGinn, Harry Wilson, Morgan Rogers, Jonathan Rowe, Alysson, Ollie Watkins, Tammy Abraham, Omar Marmoush, Brian Madjo
As Unai Emery steers Aston Villa into this new chapter, the summer transfer moves could prove decisive in shaping a squad capable of sustained success domestically and in Europe.