Aston Villa are reportedly closing in on a blockbuster agreement to sign a high-profile midfielder from Atletico Madrid. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, negotiations have entered the “final stages” as Unai Emery looks to bolster his squad for a serious Premier League title charge and a deep run in the Europa League.
The Midlands club has already been active this month, securing teenage winger Alysson from Gremio, but the acquisition of an established England international would represent a massive statement of intent.
The Final Hurdle
While optimism is high, the structure of the deal remains a key talking point. Villa’s preference has been an initial loan with an obligation to buy in the summer, a move designed to help the club navigate current Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). Atletico Madrid, however, have historically pushed for an immediate permanent sale, valuing the 25-year-old at approximately £25 million.
The urgency to find a resolution has increased following an injury to star midfielder Boubacar Kamara during Villa’s FA Cup win over Tottenham. Emery is keen to add “experienced Premier League quality” to his engine room, and the target’s 136 top-flight appearances make him the ideal candidate to fill the void.
Competition from Rivals
Villa are not alone in their pursuit. Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United have both kept close tabs on the former Chelsea captain’s situation in Spain. Spurs, in particular, are reportedly exploring a “now or never” move to hijack Villa’s negotiations, identifying central midfield as a priority area for Thomas Frank’s side.
Despite the outside interest, sources indicate that the player is open to a return to England to boost his chances of making Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad. If the final details regarding the transfer fee and payment structure are smoothed over, he could be unveiled at Villa Park before the window shuts.
A Double Swoop on the Cards?
The pursuit of the Atletico star may only be one half of a massive double transfer. Villa are also heavily linked with a sensational return for former fan-favorite Tammy Abraham. The 28-year-old striker is currently on loan at Besiktas from Roma, but Villa are reportedly exploring a deal worth under £15 million to bring him back to the West Midlands to support Ollie Watkins.