Aston Villa have agreed to send highly-rated midfielder Tommi O’Reilly on a season-long loan to League One side Notts County, according to reporter Alan Nixon. The 22-year-old academy product will continue his development at Meadow Lane, following in the footsteps of Jack Grealish, who spent a successful loan spell at the club early in his career.
Impressive Loan Spell at Crewe Alexandra
O’Reilly spent the 2025-26 season on loan at Crewe Alexandra, where he made 46 appearances across all competitions, scoring seven goals and providing several assists. His performances earned him the club's Player of the Year award, highlighting his growth as an attacking midfielder. The loan move to Crewe was his fourth temporary stint away from Villa Park, after previous spells at Real Unión in Spain, Shrewsbury Town, and Milton Keynes Dons.
Notts County beat off competition from Sheffield Wednesday, who also expressed interest in signing O’Reilly. However, Villa opted for County, believing the League One environment would suit his style of play and provide regular first-team minutes. O’Reilly is known for his vision, passing range, and ability to score from midfield, traits that have drawn comparisons to Grealish.
First-Team Experience and Academy Background
O’Reilly has made four appearances for Aston Villa's first team, including his debut in the 2023 UEFA Europa Conference League against HŠK Zrinjski. He also captained Villa Under-21s during the 2024-25 season, demonstrating leadership qualities and technical ability. A product of the Villa Academy, he has progressed through the ranks since joining at a young age.
The loan to Notts County is intended to give O’Reilly valuable playing time in a competitive league as he aims to break into Villa's senior squad permanently. The club sees him as a future first-team option, and consistent performances at Meadow Lane could accelerate his path to regular Premier League action.
Notts County Connection and Development Path
Notts County has a history of nurturing young talent, most notably Jack Grealish, who spent the 2013-14 season on loan at the club and went on to become a star at Villa and Manchester City. O’Reilly will hope to emulate that trajectory. The move also aligns with Villa's strategy of sending youngsters to League One and League Two clubs for development, as seen with other academy graduates.
O’Reilly's versatility allows him to play as an attacking midfielder or on the wing, making him a valuable addition for County. He is expected to link up with his new teammates in July for pre-season training ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
