In a late twist on transfer deadline day, Aston Villa are reportedly intensifying discussions to recall defender Kosta Nedeljkovic from his loan at RB Leipzig and send him to Serie A side Fiorentina instead. This potential move comes as the club looks to finalise several loan exits, with the window set to close imminently.
Nedeljkovic's Loan Saga Takes a Turn
According to Sky Germany journalist Philipp Hinze, talks are ongoing for Nedeljkovic to join Fiorentina for the remainder of the season. The 20-year-old Serbian international, who cost Villa approximately £8 million when signed from Red Star Belgrade in January 2024, has struggled for game time at Leipzig, making just five Bundesliga appearances this campaign.
Leipzig had previously loaned Nedeljkovic for the second half of last season, with an option to buy included in that deal. However, the German club opted against activating that clause and instead secured another loan for the promising defender. With his stint at Red Bull Arena not meeting expectations, his loan is now poised for termination, pending positive negotiations with Fiorentina.
Villa's Transfer Strategy and Emery's Stance
While Villa are active in sanctioning loan moves, manager Unai Emery has indicated that the club is unlikely to make any incoming signings before the deadline. In a recent statement, Emery was blunt about Villa's market activity, stating, "Not. Definitely not," when asked about potential movements. He elaborated that the club lacks financial flexibility and opportunities to improve the squad at this stage.
Villa's limited spending power has been a recurring theme, with the need to break even over successive seasons restricting their market competitiveness. This January, the club has made only three first-team signings: Alysson, Tammy Abraham, and Douglas Luiz, alongside academy addition Brian Madjo for £10 million.
Other Loan Developments at Villa Park
In related news, Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba has completed a six-month loan move to West Bromwich Albion, while Samuel Iling-Junior has been recalled from his loan at The Hawthorns. Iling-Junior is now lined up for a loan switch to Serie A club Pisa, highlighting Villa's focus on securing beneficial loan arrangements for their prospects.
As the hours count down to the transfer deadline, all eyes are on whether Fiorentina can finalise the deal for Nedeljkovic. Hinze reports that the Italian club is "stepping up their efforts" to secure the defender, who has made 10 appearances for Villa in total. With time running short, this potential move adds an intriguing subplot to an otherwise quiet deadline day for Villa in terms of incomings.
