Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has confirmed the club is actively preparing for the January transfer window, which opens in just 13 days, as they look to strengthen their squad for a sustained challenge on multiple fronts.
Villa's Transfer Strategy Takes Shape
Speaking ahead of his side's clash with Manchester United, Emery admitted that planning for the winter market is already well underway. The Villa boss stated that the club "always has one eye on the transfer window" and is exploring opportunities to add quality and experience to his group.
"Of course, the club is working," Emery said. "We have always one eye in the transfer window, and in case something can help us, and you can have one opportunity to sign some players who can add us something different. Of course, quality, of course, experience, of course, something with increasing our qualities in the squad, we must do it."
Expected Arrivals and Potential Departures
The most anticipated move is for Brazilian winger Alysson from Grêmio, who is expected to complete a switch to Villa Park. However, the club's immediate plans for integrating the player remain unclear at this stage.
In terms of outgoings, Harvey Elliott could be set for a return to Liverpool. The midfielder has not featured for Villa since their victory over Feyenoord back in October, prompting speculation about his future.
Bolstering for a Gruelling Second Half
Emery's desire to reinforce his options is driven by the club's strong position and the demanding schedule ahead. Aston Villa currently sit third in both the Premier League and their Europa League group, putting them in contention for significant success.
While Emery has expertly managed the dual demands of European and domestic football so far this season and throughout much of his three-year tenure, the intensity of knockout football presents a fresh challenge. Adding depth and quality in January is seen as crucial to maintaining their momentum across all competitions.
The coming weeks will be pivotal in shaping Villa's squad for the remainder of the campaign, as Emery and the club's hierarchy, including co-owner Nassef Sawiris and director of football Damian Vidagany, work to identify and secure their primary targets.
