Expert Mention THREE reasons why Aston Villa could agree lower price for ‘amazing’ Asensio transfer
Marco Asensio’s Future Uncertain After Impressive Aston Villa Loan Spell
Marco Asensio enjoyed a highly productive loan stint at Aston Villa last season, rekindling his form and making a significant impact in the Premier League. The Spanish attacker joined Unai Emery’s side during the January transfer window, and quickly became a key figure in the final third, scoring eight goals and contributing one assist across 21 appearances in all competitions.
Despite his valuable contributions and clear influence on Villa’s attacking play, the terms of his loan from Paris Saint-Germain did not include an option to buy. As a result, there remains uncertainty surrounding Asensio’s future, and whether a permanent return to Villa Park will materialise ahead of the 2025–26 season.
Transfer Fee Poses a Challenge for Villa
Reports suggest that Aston Villa may be hesitant to pursue a permanent deal due to the high asking price placed on Asensio by PSG. Although his performances on loan demonstrated his value, the financial demands of such a move appear to be a stumbling block.
Veteran football commentator Ian Darke weighed in on the situation, expressing some surprise at Villa’s reluctance to push forward with a permanent transfer.
Speaking exclusively to Villa News, Darke said:
“You have to judge players by their overall contribution, and Asensio certainly made his mark during his loan. He hit a remarkable run of form, scoring seven goals in seven games through February and March, which really boosted Villa’s momentum at a crucial time in the season.”
Darke continued, “He’s a player of real quality, the type you want to have in and around your squad. I’m honestly a little surprised Villa wouldn’t look to make the move permanent. He has an excellent eye for goal and brings a wealth of experience. At Real Madrid, he struggled to nail down a regular starting spot, often stuck on the bench. But even then, he had a knack for scoring important goals—he even found the net in a Champions League final.”
As for the financials, Darke speculated that Villa might be willing to do a deal if PSG lowers their demands:
“The big question is the price. I suspect Villa would be interested if the fee was more reasonable. But perhaps they’re evaluating whether he’d be a guaranteed starter going forward. Asensio is a player who tends to divide opinion, but his talent is undeniable.”
Room for Negotiation Remains
Although there’s no clear indication that a deal is imminent, the door may not be completely closed on Asensio’s return. Sporting director Monchi was praised for orchestrating the loan in the first place, as it gave the 29-year-old a platform to rediscover his form and show what he’s capable of in a new environment.
However, the lack of Champions League football next season could hamper Villa’s transfer ambitions, both in terms of attracting players and affording their top targets. Still, if they can convince PSG to lower their valuation, the possibility of bringing Asensio back to Villa Park shouldn’t be ruled out entirely.
Should the deal not come to fruition, Villa will be forced to look elsewhere to fill the creative gap left by Asensio. One player linked as a potential alternative is Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott, a young and technically gifted midfielder who could bring flair and energy to Emery’s squad.
As it stands, Asensio’s situation remains fluid. Villa fans will be hoping for clarity soon—whether it means welcoming back the Spaniard or ushering in a new attacking talent to carry the creative burden in the coming campaign.