Aston Villa are preparing for a busy summer transfer window as they aim to strengthen their squad ahead of a return to the Champions League next season. The club is exploring several potential moves, including a new goalkeeper, a decision on a returning midfielder, and interest in a promising winger.
Nicolas Could Replace Martinez
Aston Villa could turn to Borussia Monchengladbach goalkeeper Moritz Nicolas if Emi Martinez departs this summer. Doubts over Martinez's future persist after he nearly joined Manchester United last year. According to Sky Germany, Villa have shown interest in Nicolas, who has a clause in his contract allowing any top-five Bundesliga club to sign him for €10-15 million. However, Premier League clubs must pay €15 million. Nicolas kept 13 clean sheets in 34 Bundesliga games this season and impressed in a 1-0 loss to RB Leipzig. Manager Eugen Polanski praised him, saying: "The fact that Mo was voted man-of-the-match despite the loss speaks volumes. Such a performance doesn't surprise me. It's a manifestation of what he delivers week after week."
Villa Decline Luiz Option
Aston Villa will not make Douglas Luiz's loan move permanent, with the midfielder expected to return to Juventus. Villa had an option to buy the Brazilian for £25 million, but according to The Athletic, they will not pursue it. Luiz rejoined Villa in January on loan after injuries to Boubacar Kamara, Youri Tielemans, and John McGinn. However, he struggled for first-team opportunities, falling behind Lamare Bogarde and Victor Lindelof in the pecking order. He made 20 appearances and scored once, and will now return to Juventus for pre-season.
Rowe on Radar
Aston Villa and Chelsea are monitoring Bologna winger Jonathan Rowe, who could leave the Italian side this summer. The former Norwich City player has impressed in Serie A, scoring eight goals and providing five assists, ranking third for goal involvements at Bologna. Villa are reportedly "crazy" about the winger, while Chelsea are also interested under new manager Xabi Alonso. Bologna seek €40-45 million for Rowe, who has three years left on his contract. According to Il Resto del Carlino, both clubs are studying possible moves. Villa may have an edge as they can offer Champions League football, while Chelsea missed out. Rowe previously called Villa a "top class club" before their Europa League meeting in April, where he scored but Bologna lost.
Where Should Villa Strengthen?
Fans are invited to share their views on where Villa need to reinforce this summer. BirminghamLive provides daily Aston Villa news, including transfer stories, through dedicated reporter John Townley. Follow him on X for comprehensive coverage. Sign up for the free daily Aston Villa newsletter for key updates, or join the WhatsApp group for breaking news. Download the BirminghamLive app for personalized content, and listen to the weekly Claret and Blue podcast on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple.
