Sources: Monchi tipped to make ‘huge’ surprise signing at Aston Villa, it could be at £33m star’s expense
Aston Villa Quietly Preparing for Major Summer Moves Despite PSR Worries
Despite widespread discussion surrounding Aston Villa’s financial situation and the looming threat of breaching Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), manager Unai Emery still expects the club to be active in the transfer market. The Spaniard remains focused on upgrading his squad ahead of a campaign that will include both domestic and European challenges.
Villa narrowly missed out on securing a Champions League place for the upcoming season in dramatic and controversial fashion on the final day of the Premier League campaign. However, that setback has not dampened the club’s ambition or Emery’s desire to take the team to the next level. If anything, it’s added fuel to the fire.
One of the high-profile names currently linked with a move to Villa Park is Barcelona winger Ferran Torres. The Spanish international could be on the chopping block at the Nou Camp, especially with Athletic Club star Nico Williams reportedly close to joining the Catalan giants. Williams’ arrival could squeeze Torres further down the pecking order, opening the door for Villa to pounce.
Though Villa have reportedly lost out on Real Betis youngster Jesús Rodríguez, that hasn’t stopped the club’s President of Football Operations, Monchi, from aggressively exploring other options. With a vast scouting network and a reputation for unearthing top-tier talent, Monchi is likely to have a shortlist of alternatives already lined up.
Interestingly, Aston Villa are also showing a strong stance in the transfer market by rejecting offers for promising winger Morgan Rogers, who is attracting serious interest from clubs across Europe. The refusal to sell sends a clear signal that Villa are keen to build a competitive and deep squad, not dismantle it.
Watkins Sale Could Trigger Major Shock Move
One of the most intriguing developments surrounds the future of star striker Ollie Watkins. While there has been no formal announcement, TBR Football’s chief correspondent Graeme Bailey believes something big could be brewing behind the scenes at Villa Park.
Watkins, who was signed for £33 million, is reportedly attracting interest from several top Premier League clubs, including Manchester United. Bailey hinted that a surprise move involving the England striker could be on the horizon.
“Could we see Villa going after a top-tier striker late in the window? I wouldn’t rule them out,” Bailey stated. “Emery and Monchi have already shown they’re capable of making tough decisions if they believe it’s in the best interests of the club.”
He also referenced previous high-profile sales, such as Moussa Diaby and Jhon Durán moving to the Saudi Pro League, as examples of Villa’s willingness to be bold in the transfer market. According to Bailey, Watkins’ future is one of the key storylines to follow this summer.
“I’ve got a strong feeling Villa could pull off something major that nobody’s expecting. They’re a club capable of making a big splash. They’re certainly one to watch in the striker market,” he added. “I don’t think they’ll get someone like Viktor Gyökeres, but I don’t think they’ll be far off either.”
Right Time to Move On From Watkins?
The potential departure of Ollie Watkins raises an important question: is this the right time for Aston Villa to cash in?
At 29 years old, Watkins is approaching the latter stages of his prime. While his goal return last season remained respectable, some observers noted a slight drop in output, possibly due to fewer starts and increased competition for places — including when Marcus Rashford was brought in on loan for the latter part of the season. Emery was not afraid to rotate or even bench Watkins in some of Villa’s biggest matches, particularly in the Champions League, signaling a possible shift in priorities.
Despite that, the striker continues to draw admiration from top clubs. Arsenal, for example, have been long-time admirers of the Villa forward. His consistency in front of goal and physical presence make him an attractive option, even if Villa would demand a premium fee.
If Watkins were to be sold, the funds could be reinvested into a marquee signing. One speculative target could be Hugo Ekitike of Eintracht Frankfurt — a highly rated young forward with huge potential and resale value. Ekitike has long been on the radar of several Premier League clubs and fits the profile of a player Monchi might pursue.
What Lies Ahead
For now, much of the speculation remains hypothetical, but what’s certain is that Villa’s summer will not be quiet. With a squad that has proven its ability to compete at the highest level, combined with the strategic vision of Emery and Monchi, the club appears poised for a summer of significant movement — both in and out.
Supporters at Villa Park should brace themselves for a dynamic and possibly dramatic transfer window. Whether that involves the departure of Ollie Watkins, the arrival of a new marquee striker, or surprise signings from Europe’s elite clubs, one thing is clear — Aston Villa are not standing still.