Aston Villa are finalising the departure of defender Kosta Nedeljkovic to Rangers on a loan deal that includes an obligation to buy, as manager Unai Emery intensifies efforts to bring in two new signings before the transfer deadline.
Nedeljkovic Set for Rangers Move
Rangers are expected to sign Nedeljkovic on loan with an obligation to make the transfer permanent, according to reports. The move would trim Villa's defensive options as they look to reshape the squad in the final two weeks of the summer window.
The 21-year-old right-back has struggled for regular first-team minutes at Villa Park since joining from Red Star Belgrade. The loan switch to Scottish Premiership side Rangers would provide him with more playing time, while securing a future fee for the Midlands club.
Emery Targets Wan-Bissaka and Palhinha
Villa continue to work on deals for Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Joao Palhinha as Emery looks to bolster his squad before the deadline on Tuesday, September 1. The club are pursuing both players simultaneously, with Wan-Bissaka seen as an upgrade at right-back and Palhinha as a reinforcement in central midfield.
Wan-Bissaka, currently at Manchester United, has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford for some time. Palhinha, the Portugal international who plays for Fulham, would add physicality and defensive cover in the middle of the park.
Martinez Exit Looms as Suzuki Deal Nears
Villa are also looking to offload goalkeeper Emi Martinez in the final two weeks of the window, as they finalise the signing of Zion Suzuki from Parma. The Japanese international is expected to arrive as a long-term replacement, allowing Martinez to depart for a new challenge.
Martinez has been a key figure for Villa since joining from Arsenal in 2020, but the club are willing to cash in on the 33-year-old Argentina international while he still has market value. Suzuki, 23, has impressed in Serie A and would provide competition for the number one spot.
Financial Rules Criticised by Jordan
Former Crystal Palace owner Simon Jordan has once again criticised the Premier League's financial rules, claiming they protect the 'big six' and limit the ambition of clubs like Villa and Newcastle in the transfer market. Jordan's comments come as Villa look to strengthen their squad but face constraints under profit and sustainability regulations.
Villa have been active in the market this summer, but the need to balance the books has forced them to consider outgoings such as Nedeljkovic and Martinez. The club's ability to spend freely is restricted, and Jordan argues that the rules create an uneven playing field.
With the deadline approaching, Villa are working on multiple fronts to reshape their squad. The departures of Nedeljkovic and Martinez would free up funds and squad space, while the arrivals of Wan-Bissaka, Palhinha, and Suzuki would strengthen key areas.
