As Aston Villa gear up for challenging Premier League and Champions League campaigns, strengthening their squad is a priority. Key areas needing reinforcement include providing competition for Matty Cash at right back, injecting pace and creativity in wide positions, and securing reliable goal contributions from midfield.
Morgan Rogers epitomizes Villa’s recent recruitment success. Signed from Middlesbrough for an initial £8 million, Rogers has since developed into a player valued at least ten times that figure and an England international. Villa’s strategy of scouting high-potential players in the Championship, refining their skills, and maximizing their value, is a model worth repeating.
Here are five potential targets who could represent similar opportunities:
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Ryan Giles (Millwall)
Versatile defender Ryan Giles featured predominantly as a right back and center back last season, making 25 starts in each position. At 6ft 4in with strong positioning and technical skills, he has the physical attributes to excel in the Premier League. Having impressed on loan at Exeter and with a solid campaign at Millwall, Giles has attracted interest from clubs like Everton, with a reported valuation near £15 million.
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Roméo Lavia (Southampton)
At 27, Lavia’s path to the Championship has been unconventional, with experience in Sweden and Germany’s lower leagues. Signed by Southampton last summer, he has been an outstanding performer with 10 goals and 10 assists in 47 games. Known for his pace, directness, and ball-carrying ability, Lavia’s value has soared, and he represents a dynamic attacking threat.
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Benik Afobe (Millwall)
A standout winger in the Championship, Afobe has been crucial to Millwall’s success. Transitioning from Reading, he netted 11 goals and provided eight assists last term. A right winger with Premier League-caliber athleticism and finesse, Afobe has caught the eye of clubs like Crystal Palace, Sunderland, and Brentford. His moments of brilliance, including a stunning long-range goal and pinpoint assists, showcase his potential.
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Jonny Hackney (Middlesbrough)
Central midfielder Jonny Hackney was Middlesbrough’s catalyst last season, earning Championship Player of the Year honors. Despite a late-season injury hampering his campaign, his six goals and eight assists from 41 appearances underscored his significance. Hackney is dangerous near the opposition goal, versatile across midfield positions, and potentially available for a bargain with just one year left on his contract. Interest reportedly comes from Crystal Palace, Tottenham, and Manchester United.
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Callum James (Leicester City, on loan from Birmingham City)
Callum James moved to Ligue 1 in 2024 but excelled on loan back in England, earning Championship Young Player of the Year honors. Capable of playing as a No. 6 or No. 8, James scored ten goals from midfield last season. He combines clinical finishing, strong ball carrying, and tremendous mobility. Under a manager like Unai Emery, James could develop further, following in Morgan Rogers’ footsteps.
Aston Villa’s shrewd talent identification and development approach has paid dividends before. By targeting these emerging stars, they have the opportunity to unearth the next Morgan Rogers and continue their rise in English football.