Aston Villa eye semi-final after Bologna win
After leaving Villa on loan, Donyell Malen has 10 goals in 12 for Roma, but Dutch journalist Valentijn Driessen downplays it, saying Serie A is weaker and Memphis Depay should start for the Netherlands.
Data underline Boubacar Kamara’s influence as Villa’s form dips since his season-ending knee injury. With him they averaged 2.33 ppg. Emery’s side chase Europa League progress and top-four amid a heavy schedule.
Villa, Leeds and Everton are ‘actively’ assessing Southampton winger Leo Scienza, who has 10 goals and 8 assists this season. A €29m clause could tempt a move if Saints miss promotion.
Villa monitor Man City’s James Trafford as a potential Emiliano Martinez replacement. Trafford lacks minutes after Donnarumma’s arrival, while Martinez, sidelined with a calf strain, is tipped to leave this summer. Livescore
Villa eye a bargain attacking signing likened to Jonathan Rowe as they plan summer changes, seeking value after recent mixed recruitment. Details remain scant.
Backup keeper Marco Bizot, signed from Brest, is contracted to 2027 on about £45k p/w. With Emi Martinez absent at times, Bizot has made 13 appearances and proved a reliable option.
Evann Guessand’s knee injury at Crystal Palace threatens a permanent move, risking a Villa return. The £30.5m winger has struggled, leaving Emery with a potential squad refresh dilemma this summer.
Former Villa scout Bryan King says Morgan Rogers risks his England place amid poor form, citing complacency after a missed sitter vs Nottingham Forest. Emery may drop him to jolt a response.
Villa have stepped up a move for Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi, holding talks as they push for an early summer deal after he rejected Juventus.
Villa take a 3-1 lead over Bologna to Villa Park after Konsa and Watkins struck in the first leg. Opta gives Villa a 69.9% win chance for the second leg, with Porto or Nottingham Forest likely semi-final foes.
