The sister and agent of Aston Villa midfielder Amadou Onana has publicly explained the reasoning behind his major summer transfer, revealing a late approach from Manchester United was rejected after a promise had already been made.
The Villa Project Seals the Deal
Belgium international Amadou Onana completed a £50million move to Aston Villa from Everton on July 22, 2024. His sister, Melissa Onana, who also acts as his representative, has detailed that the clarity of Villa's sporting project was the primary motivator for the switch.
She emphasised that conversations with the club's sporting director outlined a clear path for the 24-year-old's continued development. While acknowledging the financial package was attractive, Melissa stated the overall ambition and style of football under manager Unai Emery made her brother feel "right at home."
Honouring a Promise Despite United's Interest
The transfer saga took a late twist when Manchester United, who had held a long-term interest in Onana during his time at Everton, entered the negotiations.
Melissa Onana confirmed that the deal with Villa was already finalised by that point. "I had already given my word to Aston Villa," she revealed, adding that while they were aware United could likely offer superior financial terms, their commitment to Villa and its project took precedence.
The timing was also crucial, with the move being secured ahead of the European Championships where Onana was expected to feature for Belgium.
From Goodison Park to Villa Park
Onana originally joined Everton from French side Lille in August 2022 for £33.5million. During his tenure on Merseyside, he made 72 appearances and scored four goals for the Toffees.
His sale was considered a necessary one by Everton officials as they worked to avoid a further Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) breach. Since his move to the Midlands, Onana has continued to impress, making 43 appearances and scoring six goals for Villa.
His form was recently recognised with a spot in Troy Deeney's Premier League Team of the Week for BBC Football after he scored his first goal of the season in Villa's 4-0 victory over Bournemouth.
