Aston Villa weigh Champions League push against key squad calls
Dortmund sporting managing director Lars Ricken says they are analysing a potential Jadon Sancho return on a free this summer and are also seeking defensive reinforcements with Niklas Süle leaving and Emre Can sidelined.
Villa see Champions League revenue as vital to keep Youri Tielemans, a key midfield ‘beating heart’. Failure to qualify could force a sale, with his free-transfer status making any fee pure profit.
Ex-Norwich fan pundit backs Galatasaray’s Gabriel Sara for Premier League level, saying he would suit Villa’s style and versatility after shining in the Champions League and with a Brazil debut.
Aston Villa have set their sights on a new talisman for the summer transfer window.
Villa are reportedly among the clubs monitoring Sassuolo defender Tarik Muharemovic, 23, with a reported valuation of around £26m, as a potential long-term centre-back option. Tottenham and Manchester United have also been linked.
Konsa hails Emery’s impact as Villa push for the top five and a Europa League semi-final. The England defender says he has ‘really grown’ under Emery and wants Villa to ‘go a step further’ this season.
With Jadon Sancho injured, Leon Bailey could start vs Bologna and be tasked with tracking Juan Miranda, who delivered two assists v Cremonese. Bailey must step up defensively for Villa’s Europa League tie.
