Aston Villa’s manager, Unai Emery, has confirmed that the club is actively pursuing opportunities to strengthen its squad during the current transfer window. While he acknowledged the speculation surrounding a potential move for Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, he chose not to comment specifically on that situation. Rashford has emerged as a prominent target for Villa, who are also considering options for other players, including Ollie Watkins and Jhon Duran.
The recent transfer of Jhon Duran to Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr was officially announced on Friday, coinciding with the closure of the Saudi transfer window. Earlier in the week, Villa rejected an offer from Arsenal for Watkins, signalling the club's determination to retain its key players. Reports have surfaced suggesting that Rashford has bid farewell to his Manchester United teammates, which could indicate a possible loan departure from Old Trafford. However, discussions between Villa and United regarding Rashford’s potential transfer have faced challenges, particularly concerning the allocation of his wages.
Following a midweek victory over Celtic that secured Villa's place in the Champions League round of 16, the team experienced disappointment on Saturday with a 2-0 defeat against Wolverhampton Wanderers. After the match, Emery was questioned about the club's transfer intentions but maintained a cautious stance. “I am going to wait for the last two days (of the transfer window),” he stated in an interview with Sky Sports regarding Rashford. He further emphasised the pressing need for new signings during a conversation with BBC Sport, asserting, “We need some players. We need to replace some players who left. Tomorrow and Monday are the last two days. I think we'll get some players to help us because we're in the Champions League last 16. We have to try to get points in the Premier League to be top eight, seven, six, five.”
The defeat to Wolves was particularly disappointing for Villa, as a victory would have brought them within a point of the Premier League's top four. The match saw Jean-Ricner Bellegarde score early for Wolves, followed by a controversial disallowed equaliser for Villa, and a last-minute goal from Matheus Cunha that sealed Villa’s fate. Emery was also compelled to substitute top scorer Watkins at half-time due to discomfort. “He felt some pain but hopefully not a lot,” Emery remarked to BBC Sport, adding, “We'll test him tomorrow.”
Cunha, Wolves’ record signing, has been linked with a move to Villa Park, although his celebration after scoring suggests his commitment to Wolves. Manager Vitor Pereira praised Cunha’s contributions, stating, “He has this quality. A special player. He's committed with us. He knows in the future he can play for the best teams in England but he's committed with us.”
As reported by The Mirror, the coming days will be crucial for Aston Villa as the transfer window nears its conclusion, with Emery’s plans for squad enhancement still taking shape. The club's ambitions in both domestic and European competitions hinge on their ability to secure the right reinforcements.