Aston Villa eye 12th home win, Newcastle cup tie set
Villa are linked to Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, but reports say they are not in the race as Palace reject Juventus’ approach. Watkins remains Emery’s only senior No 9.
Villa pursue Tammy Abraham, with Beşiktaş asking for two Villa players in return. Evann Guessand and Lamare Bogarde are on their list, though Guessand’s agent says he will not leave this month.
Villa consider a move for Fenerbahce’s Youssef En-Nesyri, a loan option to compete with Ollie Watkins amid FFP concerns, potentially hijacking Everton’s interest.
Villa enquire about Club Brugge’s Raphael Onyedika after Boubacar Kamara’s knee injury. The Nigerian can play defensive midfield or centre-back, but Brugge may demand a premium with a deal to 2027.
Villa host Newcastle in the FA Cup fourth round at Villa Park over the weekend of 14 Feb 2026. Fifth round set for 7 Mar, quarters 4 Apr, semis 25 Apr, final 16 May.
Villa, third, chase a 12th straight home win vs depleted Everton. Martinez fit, Watkins leads with Rogers in support. Kamara, Onana, Barkley out. Grealish back for Everton. Last meeting 0-0 in Sept 2025.
Villa join Manchester United and Tottenham in tracking Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu, valued at €30m. The 25-year-old is seen as a bargain option to strengthen the back line.
Villa could move for Omar Marmoush, with Pep Guardiola preferring youth like Divine Mukasa and adding Antoine Semenyo, limiting Marmoush’s minutes. Villa still monitor Tammy Abraham as forward options.
