Aston Villa are pulling out all the stops as the transfer window nears its end, with the club eager to bolster their attacking options. Manager Unai Emery is keen to add a new striker to his squad, aiming to enhance their competitive edge both domestically and in European competitions. With a shortlist of promising candidates, Villa's recruitment team is burning the midnight oil to secure a deal before the transfer deadline.
Nicolas Jackson and Tammy Abraham among top targets
At the forefront of Aston Villa's transfer ambitions is Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson. The club has been closely monitoring the young striker's progress for over a year, and discussions are underway to determine the viability of launching formal negotiations. Jackson's potential to add dynamism to Villa's forward line makes him a prime target.
Additionally, Roma's Tammy Abraham has caught Villa's eye. Although Abraham is reportedly on the brink of a move to West Ham for a £17 million fee, Villa remains vigilant, ready to swoop in if the opportunity arises. Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund's Karim Adeyemi is another name on Villa's radar, though his hefty £42 million price tag might pose a challenge.
Everton's Calvert-Lewin emerges as potential backup option
Dominic Calvert-Lewin, the Everton striker once praised by Pep Guardiola for his aerial prowess, is another option Villa are considering. With his contract nearing its end and a series of injuries affecting his form, Calvert-Lewin might be open to a change of scenery. Villa sees him as a potential backup to Ollie Watkins, offering valuable depth as the team navigates multiple competitions.
However, they are not alone in their interest; Arsenal, Chelsea, and Newcastle are also in the mix. Newcastle, in particular, seems hesitant about Everton's £40 million valuation, preferring a more modest £25 million.
Villa's transfer priorities extend beyond strikers
While securing a striker is a top priority, Aston Villa's transfer strategy is not limited to the front line. The club is actively pursuing a new winger, with Barcelona's Raphinha still on their radar. Defensive reinforcements are also being considered, with Chelsea's Trevoh Chalobah and Lutsharel Geertruida among the potential targets.
A pressing concern for Villa is the right-back position, especially with Matty Cash sidelined for a month due to injury. This leaves the inexperienced Kosta Nedeljkovic as the only available option, making right-back reinforcements a possible priority over attacking signings.
Potential departures on the horizon
As Villa look to strengthen their squad, some players might be on their way out. Jhon Duran's future is still uncertain at the Villa Park. He has attracted interest from various clubs, though Chelsea is not among them, despite recent rumours suggesting otherwise.
Having already spent over £150 million this summer on players like Amadou Onana, Ian Maatsen, and Ross Barkley, Villa have been one of the Premier League's most active clubs in the transfer market. Securing a new striker would further solidify their roster as they aim to build on last season's successes and make a significant impact in Europe.
With the clock ticking and competition for top talent intensifying, Aston Villa's recruitment team is racing to finalise their targets and provide Unai Emery with the squad depth necessary for the challenges that lie ahead.