Bayer Leverkusen are reportedly keen on acquiring Emiliano Buendia during the upcoming January transfer window. Manager Xabi Alonso has expressed significant interest in the Argentine playmaker, as detailed by The Hard Tackle. The Bundesliga champions have initiated discussions with Aston Villa regarding a potential transfer for the 28-year-old.
Despite being fit and available for selection under manager Unai Emery, Buendia has found it challenging to secure a regular spot in the starting lineup. His playing time has been limited, with the majority of his appearances coming as a substitute in the latter stages of matches. To date, he has made 18 appearances across all competitions this season, starting only three times—once in the Champions League and twice in the Carabao Cup.
Buendia, who joined Aston Villa from Norwich City in 2021, is under increasing pressure to establish a more consistent playing role, as his experience at Villa Park has not met his expectations. The timing of Leverkusen's interest coincides with ongoing negotiations concerning Buendia's future at Villa Park. The specifics of any potential deal remain unclear, with speculation surrounding whether it would involve a loan arrangement or a permanent transfer, particularly given that he has 18 months remaining on his current contract.
In a related development, football journalist David Ornstein has reported that Aston Villa are nearing a preliminary agreement to extend Buendia's contract for an additional year, which would keep him at the club until 2027. This extension could pave the way for a loan move before the transfer window closes, as Villa appear to be actively seeking to strengthen their squad.
Alonso's intentions to bolster his attacking options highlight Buendia as an ideal candidate for his strategic plans. While no formal agreement has been reached at this stage, the potential contract extension could facilitate Buendia’s exit from Villa, particularly as Emery looks to introduce players who could make a more significant impact on the pitch.
In addition to Buendia, Aston Villa are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing players such as Alex Baena and Matheus Cunha, with their interest in Semih Kilicsoy further indicating preparations for Buendia’s potential departure. Consequently, any transfer involving the Argentine will likely depend on Aston Villa's success in securing a suitable replacement in the coming days.