Proposal REJECTION may force Aston Villa to sell

The current profit and sustainability rules (PSR) mean that a club is permitted to losses of £105 million over the course of three years. Unfortunately for Villa, a proposal put forward by the club and Crystal Palace to increase those allowed losses to £130 million was rejected as 15 clubs in the league voted against it. This means that Villa are lying dangerously close to the limit as the financial year end date of 30th June looms closer.

Baring this in mind it appears highly likely that Villa will consider selling a valuable asset before the end of the month in order to comply with the PSR limitations. Rumours are flying around and lots of opinions between fans suggest a number of names that Villa could consider selling before they think about the players that could be brought in to improve the squad.

Aston Villa have been recently linked with the potential signings of Andreas Perreira of Fulham and Conor Gallagher of Chelsea, both of which would likely cost the club upwards of £35 million. However, it is looking clearer by the day that if Villa are wanting to spend big on new players then they are going to have to sell in order to buy.

Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz is the name that appears to most likely to leave the club, with both Juventus and Arsenal keen on signing him. Juventus appear to be offering a cash plus player deal with Weston McKennie heading to Villa Park while Villa would make around £30 million for Luiz. Should Villa not look to accept a deal like that, then a more straightforward deal with the likes of Arsenal could see Villa bring in a fee of around £65-70 million.

After a sensational season in which he scored 27 goals in all competitions and won the Premier League Playmaker of the Season Award, Ollie Watkins is probably Villa's most valuable asset. Watkins, recently selected for England's Euro 2024 squad, would likely bring in a fee upwards of £70 million with plenty of clubs rumoured to be interested in capturing his signature.

However, it appears unlikely that Watkins would be one to leave the club having signed a new long-term deal only 9 months ago and Emery outlining his determination to keep hold of his star striker. Speaking to TNT Sports in April, Emery said:

""He’s amazing. He’s a really hard worker and his commitment to work every day is amazing. His commitment and behaviour is always a very good example for others. His power is his mind. His mentality is the best quality he has.""

The other name hot on the lips of Villa fans when discussing the subject of selling players is Jacob Ramsey. Ramsey spent most of the 2023/24 season on the side-lines with injury problems which was incredibly frustrating for player and fans following an incredible campaign the year before.

Ramsey, based on form the previous year, was being lined up by many for England selection and being described as one of the country's brightest young attacking talents. His value was, and perhaps still is, looking to be around £50 million.

Whilst the European Championship proceeds through the summer, it could prove to be a tricky transfer window for Villa. The club will be looking to move on those who are on high wages, such as Diego Carlos and Lucas Digne, and make some profit on those not deemed to be part of the plan next season, such as Matty Cash and Leander Dendoncker. Cash has been heavily linked with a move to Milan this week. However, with Villa having exciting new European challenges ahead next season it will be difficult to move on players that still have years left on their contracts.

Thankfully for Villa, Unai Emery and his team will ensure the club is in safe hands and will do all they can to have the club in a good position going into the start of next season.

UTV