With the January transfer window set to open, Aston Villa are preparing a crucial squad refresh under the guidance of new president of football operations Roberto Olabe. Manager Unai Emery has guided The Villans to impressive heights, but the club's hierarchy recognises the need to strengthen to maintain their progress and secure a return to European football's elite competition.
Striker Search Tops The Priority List
The primary focus for Villa's recruitment drive is the centre-forward position. Ollie Watkins' struggle for goals early this season, combined with his approaching 30th birthday, has made securing a new striker imperative. At the very top of what appears a ambitious list is Real Madrid's Brazilian sensation Endrick. The 19-year-old, who has already made a significant impact for the Brazilian national team, is seen as a potential superstar who could thrive under Emery's guidance, though a move remains highly ambitious.
Other striking options include Brentford's Ivan Toney, a proven Premier League scorer, and a different profile in Gonzalo Garcia. Garcia is a traditional number nine who has scored prolifically in Spain's third tier and impressed at the Club World Cup, offering a potential long-term successor to Watkins.
Midfield Reinforcements and Goalkeeper Planning
Villa's ambitions extend beyond the attack. The club is also seeking a Champions League-calibre midfielder to add control and quality in the centre of the park. One surprising name linked is Manchester City's Mateo Kovacic. The 31-year-old Croatian, if fit, possesses the experience and technical ability to elevate Villa's play, though his limited minutes this campaign are a concern.
A more likely and exciting target is Borussia Dortmund and Germany international Julian Brandt. The versatile attacker would represent a major coup, offering creativity and the ability to influence games against all levels of opposition, a vital asset for a club with Villa's aspirations.
Planning for the future also involves the goalkeeper position. While World Cup hero Emi Martinez remains first choice, the club is considering a long-term succession plan. Manchester City's James Trafford is identified as a candidate, with scouts noting his reflex saves and mental resilience despite a challenging start to his career at the Etihad.
A Critical Window for Villa's Project
This January window represents the first real opportunity for Olabe to make his mark on Emery's squad since his appointment. With Villa competing at the top end of the Premier League, strategic additions could be the difference between consolidating their status and challenging for the highest honours. The targets listed—from the stellar Endrick to the practical Trafford—show a club thinking both for the immediate future and for long-term growth. Supporters will be watching closely as the window opens, hoping the club can secure the quality needed to continue their remarkable trajectory under Unai Emery.
