Unai Emery's 'Army': Aston Villa's Ambitious Transfer Moves
Unai Emery's 'Army'
Aston Villa is strengthening its squad to attempt an assault on the 'Champions Zone' in the 2023/24 season. After signing Youri Tielemans on a free transfer, the next arrival in Birmingham would be Pau Torres.
Aston Villa is quietly working behind the scenes but moving through the transfer market with ease. The Birmingham club is providing Unai Emery with a true 'army' that aims to break into the 'Champions Zone' in the 23/24 season after finishing seventh in the 22/23 season, securing a spot in the Conference League. The Hondarribia-born coach revived a team that had forgotten how to compete and, worst of all, had lost much of its identity. That's why they want to reward the good work done at Villa Park with a squad capable of taking the next step.
TIELEMANS, THE FIRST TO ARRIVE
So far, the only official signing is Youri Tielemans, a real market opportunity that wouldn't have been possible without Emery. The Belgian, who had many offers on the table because his contract with Leicester City expired on June 30, explained his decision after joining Aston Villa. "When I spoke to Emery, his ambition, passion, and the way he led the team last year impressed me, so I decided to join Aston Villa," he confessed.
Tielemans stands out for his great ball control, both in passing and striking. He poses a significant threat from outside the box. Always ready to shoot, he will bring a different dimension to a midfield packed with big names like Douglas Luiz, Kamara, or McGinn, but lacking Tielemans' freedom to try his luck from long range.
PAU TORRES, UP NEXT
The next player to arrive will be Pau Torres, but according to Fabrizio Romano, we will have to wait a few more days. The "groguet" center-back will elevate the defense to the next level, with Mings, Konsa, and a healthy Diego Carlos in the center, and Álex Moreno, Digne, Young, and Cash on the flanks. Emery can be confident in his defensive alternatives. According to the transfer market specialist journalist, the deal will be closed below his release clause value, around €30-40 million.
COUTINHO, DOWN AND OUT
Philippe Coutinho is likely not going to be part of Emery's "squadron." The Brazilian, who just turned 31, lost prominence last season, appearing in only one matchday squad since February and not playing a single minute. The reality is that Aston Villa doesn't count on him, and Besiktas is trying to sign him for a much lower fee.
With the firepower of Bailey, Buendía, Traoré, or Watkins, Coutinho's departure would not affect the Birmingham side. However, reports from England suggest that they are working on the signing of Hirving Lozano or a loan with an option to buy for Ferran Torres to strengthen the attack.
Aston Villa's transfer market activity is very interesting. They are signing players at affordable prices with elite experience, reinforcing the positions demanded by Unai Emery. We will have to keep an eye on how things develop in Birmingham this summer.