Managing Aston Villa: Monchi’s £120m solution to drive club forward
Aston Villa’s Summer Transfer Plans Take Shape Amid UEFA Sanctions and Strategic Sales
Aston Villa are in the midst of what promises to be another eventful summer transfer window, as the club look to build on their strong 2024/25 campaign and reinforce their squad to compete across multiple fronts once again. While only one signing has been confirmed so far — free agent Zépiqueno Redmond — the activity behind the scenes is ramping up, with Monchi and his trusted lieutenant Damian Vidagany working closely to deliver a competitive and balanced squad for manager Unai Emery.
Despite making just one official addition, Villa are carefully navigating a complex landscape shaped by UEFA’s recent sanctions. The European football governing body fined the club €11 million for breaching financial sustainability regulations. On top of that, a sporting penalty has been introduced: Aston Villa may only register new players for European competitions (UEFA List A) if they maintain a positive transfer balance on that list — in other words, spending must not exceed earnings.
UEFA Sanctions Won’t Derail Villa’s Ambitions
Nevertheless, those within the club insist that the sanctions are manageable. According to sources close to the situation, Villa have maintained transparent and positive communications with UEFA in recent months, and feel well-prepared to operate within the newly imposed framework. The financial fine and registration limits are certainly restrictive, but not insurmountable — particularly with strategic planning and well-structured player sales.
One key part of that plan involves making at least one significant sale this summer, and all eyes are on World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez. The Argentine has been a standout performer since arriving at Villa Park and remains one of the club’s highest earners. With the shot-stopper now 32 years old and reportedly open to a new challenge, the timing may be right for a high-value transfer. He’s believed to be valued at around £40 million — a figure that could go a long way toward balancing the books.
Balancing Books Through Key Sales
Martínez isn’t the only player Villa are considering cashing in on. Fringe players such as Emiliano Buendía, Kosta Nedeljkovic, and Álex Moreno could all be moved on this summer as part of the broader cost-cutting strategy. Kaine Kesler-Hayden has already departed in a £5 million deal, and Louie Barry looked close to joining Hull City before the move fell through due to the club’s transfer restrictions.
The club also faces decisions on the futures of players like Leon Bailey and Lucas Digne. Bailey’s departure could generate a decent fee, while Digne — now entering the final year of his contract — remains one of the highest-paid members of the squad. While the Frenchman may only command a modest fee of around £10 million, his exit would further ease the wage burden. That said, the club may choose to retain him for one more year and let his contract run down, depending on other sales.
Big Decisions Ahead: Goalkeeper and Midfield Moves
If Martínez is sold, Villa will need to find a high-quality replacement between the sticks. One of their top targets is Lille’s 23-year-old goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier, widely regarded as a potential future France No. 1. The Ligue 1 club value Chevalier at around £40 million — coincidentally the same figure as Martínez — and his age and long-term potential make him an appealing option. Spread over a five-year contract, the cost of the transfer could be amortised to £8 million per year, making it financially sustainable.
Meanwhile, in midfield, a decision must be made regarding Enzo Barrenechea, who spent last season on loan at Valencia. While the young Argentine impressed during his spell in La Liga, Villa’s current midfield depth raises questions about whether he’ll get regular minutes if he stays. A permanent sale is on the cards, with La Liga and several European clubs showing interest. Villa could include a buy-back clause or a sell-on percentage to retain some long-term value.
Navigating the Squad Composition
As Villa prepare for another season in Europe, squad registration rules will also play a key role in shaping decisions. The club can only include 21 non-club-trained players in their 25-man European squad. This makes retaining homegrown players like Jacob Ramsey a priority. Ramsey was previously linked with a big-money exit, but Emery blocked a sale last summer. However, with two years remaining on his current deal, Villa may need to consider offering a new contract soon to maintain his value.
Ollie Watkins is another high-profile player attracting interest. While a sale would generate substantial funds, Villa may find it difficult to replace a proven Premier League goalscorer without the lure of Champions League football. For now, selling Watkins seems unnecessary, especially given the club’s ability to generate revenue elsewhere.
Wage Bill Reductions Already Underway
Villa’s efforts to trim the wage bill are already bearing fruit. Philippe Coutinho’s departure and contract termination have significantly eased the club’s salary burden, and further savings could be made if Leander Dendoncker is sold. The Belgian midfielder’s future remains uncertain, but a sale would certainly contribute to Villa’s goal of reducing wages by 10% this summer — and again next year.
Conclusion: Strategic Reshaping Underway
Overall, Aston Villa’s summer window is shaping up to be one of smart planning, disciplined spending, and strategic squad reshaping. With UEFA’s restrictions in place, the club can’t afford missteps, but the foundations are strong. Monchi, Vidagany, and Emery are all aligned in their vision, and with several potential outgoings lined up, there’s every reason to believe Villa can end the window with a leaner, more competitive, and financially compliant squad ready to challenge on all fronts once again.