Romano confirm Two major signings for Unai Emery as Aston Villa ‘start club to club talks’
Aston Villa Eye Key Summer Signings Amid Ambitions for Champions League Qualification
Aston Villa are reportedly gearing up for a crucial summer transfer window as manager Unai Emery looks to bolster his squad in preparation for the upcoming Premier League season. After narrowly missing out on a Champions League spot—falling short only on goal difference—the Midlands club is determined to take the next step and secure a place among Europe’s elite.
To achieve that, Emery and the club’s recruitment team have identified two primary transfer targets they believe could significantly strengthen the team. One of the players on their radar is highly-rated Real Betis winger Jesús Rodríguez. The 19-year-old, who made his breakthrough in La Liga last season, featured in 21 league matches, starting 15 of them, and played a vital role in helping Betis qualify for the UEFA Europa League.
Rodríguez, who predominantly operates on the left wing but is also capable of playing on the right, has drawn interest from several European clubs thanks to his explosive pace, technical skill, and maturity on the ball. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Aston Villa have already initiated preliminary talks with Real Betis as they attempt to beat other suitors to the signature of the promising Spanish winger.
Romano shared the update via social media, stating: “EXCL: Aston Villa start club-to-club talks for Real Betis talent Jesús Rodríguez. 2005-born talent on the shortlist of several clubs but Villa made contact this week to start discussions.”
In addition to strengthening their attacking options, Villa are also looking to reinforce their defense. Another name high on Emery’s wishlist is Atalanta right-back Raoul Bellanova. The 25-year-old enjoyed an impressive season in Serie A, making 35 appearances and contributing nine assists from a wing-back role. His attacking output and ability to cover large areas of the pitch make him an ideal fit for Emery’s system.
Villa aren’t the only Premier League club monitoring Bellanova, with Fulham and West Ham also expressing interest. However, Villa’s superior league finish and prospect of European football could give them the edge in negotiations. Italian outlet CaughtOffside reports that Atalanta value Bellanova at around €40 million. The Birmingham-based club are particularly keen to upgrade their options at right-back, a position currently held by Matty Cash.
Despite Villa’s transfer ambitions, their financial situation could present challenges. Missing out on Champions League revenue has left the club navigating the strict Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) imposed by the Premier League. These regulations permit clubs to incur an average loss of up to £5 million per year across a three-year period, with an additional allowance of £30 million if that deficit is covered by ownership investment.
Football finance expert Kieran Maguire has warned that Villa are operating dangerously close to the limits, especially with player wages making up a significant portion of the club’s revenue. “Their wages have been 90 per cent of the revenue,” Maguire explained. “UEFA says anything over 70 per cent is something to be concerned about.”
While the club has made financial gains from its recent progress in European competition, player bonuses have also increased, adding further strain to their budget. To remain compliant, Villa may need to balance incoming transfers with outgoings.
Some departures seem likely. Fringe players or those on hefty contracts—such as Philippe Coutinho, who reportedly earns £4.7 million annually—could be moved on to free up salary space. One of Villa’s more valuable assets, striker Ollie Watkins, could also be sold if a substantial offer comes in. Arsenal were previously linked with Watkins during the January window, although the Gunners’ interest reportedly cooled after Villa declined to negotiate, partly due to the departure of backup striker Jhon Durán.
Nonetheless, the North London club has since shifted its attention to other targets like Benjamin Šeško and Viktor Gyökeres, possibly leaving the door open for Villa to retain Watkins. That said, if a new suitor were to match the club’s £50–60 million valuation, Villa may be tempted to cash in.
While the coming months will likely involve tough financial decisions, Aston Villa’s intent is clear: strengthen key areas of the squad, comply with financial regulations, and mount a serious challenge for Champions League qualification next season.