Aston Villa are preparing for a potentially pivotal January transfer window as manager Unai Emery looks to bolster his squad for a sustained push towards the Champions League. The Villans have climbed from a difficult start into the European places, and strategic mid-season additions could be key to maintaining that momentum.
Four Realistic Targets for Villa Park
One of the most prominent names linked with a move to the West Midlands is Brentford's Brazilian striker, Igor Thiago. Reports suggest a fee in the region of £50 million could be required. This move is considered plausible due to Villa's need for striking competition for Ollie Watkins and Thiago's own potential desire for a high-profile move to aid his World Cup ambitions with Brazil.
Another viable option is Oscar Mingueza, the versatile Celta Vigo defender. Capable of playing at right-back or centre-back, the Spaniard is available on a potential cut-price deal with his contract expiring in the summer, making him a solid, cost-effective acquisition.
From Argentina, Villa are reportedly monitoring Lautaro Rivero, the 22-year-old River Plate defender. The club is said to be preparing an £18 million bid to fend off interest from Tottenham Hotspur, viewing him as a talent for the future, especially if a move for Mingueza fails.
A more speculative but distinct possibility could be a return to the Premier League for Ivan Toney. Currently in the Saudi Pro League, Villa are among several clubs linked, and they may enter the race if primary forward targets prove unattainable.
Five Deals That Look Highly Unlikely
Despite exciting links, several rumoured moves are expected to come to nothing. Real Madrid's teenage sensation Endrick is set for a loan move, but Lyon appears his most likely destination, not Villa Park. Similarly, a move for his fellow Madrid youngster Gonzalo Garcia is also improbable as the Spanish giants are unlikely to loan out two strikers simultaneously.
Borussia Dortmund's creative midfielder Julian Brandt has also been connected with Villa. However, German reports indicate he wishes to stay in Dortmund until season's end as he negotiates a new contract, effectively ruling out a January exit.
Links to Real Sociedad's Japanese star Takefusa Kubo are also believed to be wide of the mark, with Tottenham showing stronger interest and Villa's own creative output improving recently.
Finally, a move for 17-year-old Anderlecht midfielder Nathan de Cat is considered unlikely. While a bright prospect, Villa are expected to have more immediate priorities, and the reported £30 million package would be a significant outlay on top of other business.
Emery's Track Record Points to Smart Business
Under Unai Emery's guidance, Aston Villa have developed a reputation for astute January dealings. With the club firmly in the hunt for a top-four finish, the coming window represents a critical opportunity to add quality and depth. While the rumour mill will continue to spin, the club's focus is likely to remain on pragmatic signings that address key areas, such as a new striker and defensive cover, to sustain their impressive campaign.
