Aston Villa weigh Watkins future as transfer plans grow
Aston Villa are looking ahead to 2026/27 after a top-five Premier League finish and Europa League triumph under Unai Emery.
Villa's move for Alejandro Garnacho is framed as a calculated gamble, with data showing strong progressive carries, box touches and crossing that could suit Ollie Watkins.
Emi Buendia dismissed rumours Pau Torres has suffered an ACL injury, replying on Instagram: 'Please be serious'. The Villa defender has yet to feature in pre-season.
Arsenal and Manchester United are linked with Ollie Watkins, with Villa said to value him at £40m after rejecting bids before. Watkins has 108 goals for Villa and 2 years left.
Sheffield Wednesday are considering a move for Villa midfielder Kane Taylor, likely on loan. The 21-year-old spent the second half of last season at Oldham Athletic.
Chelsea are in talks for Villa set-piece coach Austin MacPhee. His exit would be a blow after Villa scored 18 Premier League set-piece goals last season.
Aston Villa target Pedro Vite is staying at Pumas for now, with sporting vice-president Antonio Sancho insisting 'there are no offers' and no imminent transfer.
Harvey Elliott returned to Liverpool after an unsuccessful Aston Villa loan, having made nine appearances - one short of triggering a £35m permanent move.
Villa are again linked with Joao Palhinha as they stay active in the market after signings including Johan Manzambi, Alejandro Garnacho and Joao Gomes.
Villa are monitoring Freiburg keeper Noah Atubolu as backup to Emi Martinez. The 24-year-old could cost £21m-£26m, with Bournemouth also interested.
Villa's move for Pervis Estupinan is on hold after Milan boss Ruben Amorim asked to assess the left-back on the Australia tour before deciding on a sale.
Villa lost 2-1 at Porto in pre-season. William Gomes and Pepê scored for the hosts, while Luka Lynch equalised in a lively display from Emery's young side.
Aston Villa are in talks over Gabriel Sara, with Galatasaray valuing the Brazil midfielder at €30m. Villa's European football could give them an edge over Newcastle.
