Aston Villa are enjoying a remarkable season under Unai Emery, competing for honours on three fronts, and the January transfer window presents a golden opportunity to strengthen their squad for the final push. After a difficult start with no wins in their first five Premier League games, Villa's form has been spectacular, losing just twice in their last 18 league matches.
Three Realistic Targets to Fuel Villa's Ambition
Currently sitting just six points behind leaders Arsenal with 17 games left and third in their Europa League group, Villa are genuine contenders. Their recent 2-1 FA Cup victory at Tottenham Hotspur underscores their threat across all competitions. To sustain this challenge and end a 30-year wait for major silverware, strategic reinforcements this month could be crucial. We examine three viable options for the Villans.
Securing Defensive Cover with Oscar Mingueza
Unai Emery may look to La Liga for cost-effective defensive reinforcement in the shape of Celta Vigo's Oscar Mingueza. Valued at around £8 million, the 26-year-old Spaniard's contract situation makes him an attractive proposition. His versatility, allowing him to play anywhere across the backline, would provide vital cover.
With Matty Cash the firm first-choice right-back, backup Andres Garcia has struggled with injuries, forcing youngster Lamare Bogarde into action. Mingueza's experience would offer more reliable depth for the demands of fighting on three fronts. Furthermore, he could also step in for central defenders Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres, who have had their own fitness issues this campaign.
Adding Midfield Dynamism with Conor Gallagher
Following the disappointment of missing out on Harvey Elliott, Villa's attention could turn to a former Chelsea midfielder. Conor Gallagher, now at Atletico Madrid, has been consistently linked with a move away from Spain despite making 27 appearances this season and reportedly having a good relationship with manager Diego Simeone.
The 25-year-old's energy, pressing ability, and goal threat from midfield would add a different dimension to Emery's engine room. Securing a player of Gallagher's Premier League-proven quality in January would be a significant coup and directly address the need for more dynamism in the centre of the park.
The Blockbuster Return of Tammy Abraham
The most sensational move of all would be the return of former fan favourite Tammy Abraham to Villa Park. Now 28, the striker possesses a wealth of experience from his time at Chelsea, Roma, and currently on loan at Besiktas. He would provide serious competition for star striker Ollie Watkins, an area the squad has lacked since Jhon Duran's departure a year ago.
Emery's interest is long-standing; a deal with Roma was reportedly agreed in the summer of 2023 before Abraham suffered a devastating ACL injury on the final day of the season. Completing a transfer now is complex due to his loan at Besiktas, which includes an £11.2 million option to buy, and his substantial £115,000-a-week wages. However, pulling it off would be a major statement of intent from the Villa hierarchy.
Successfully navigating even one or two of these potential deals could provide the final piece of the puzzle for Unai Emery's side. With the club in its strongest position in decades, a shrewd January window might just be the catalyst to turn a superb season into a historic, trophy-laden one.
