Aston Villa should turn to the free-agent market immediately before the transfer window shuts.
Aston Villa’s transfer plan may seem successful as they have managed to sign seven new players: Johan Manzambi, Joao Gomes, Matteo Ruggeri, Alejandro Garnacho, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Modou Cisse and, last but not least, Germany international Leon Goretzka. The last name was signed for free after his contract expired this summer.
At the same time, Villa are still in need of at least three or four more players to add depth to the squad ahead of the new season, especially given the number of injured players currently on the sidelines. Unfortunately, their negotiations have stumbled or even stalled, mainly due to their inability to meet the financial demands.
The Lions failed to sign Joao Palhinha, while their bid for Jean-Philippe Mateta was rejected. Their improved offers for Taylor Harwood-Bellis were turned down too. The West Midlands side also seem to be struggling to seal deals for Joel Ordonez, Rafael Leao and Nicolas Jackson.
Perhaps it is high time for Emery to explore the free-agent market and snap up some quality players who are still available as the time is ticking. As Villa are currently targeting at least two centre-backs, one forward and one versatile winger who could play up front, when necessary, here are some distinguished free agents who are available at the moment.
For the defensive positions, there are two names who could be considered worthwhile signings as they are still below 30 years old. The first is Diogo Leite. The Portuguese centre-back was a key man for Union Berlin when they qualified for European competition, including the Champions League in 2023/24.
The former FC Porto man made 136 appearances, scoring twice and providing four assists. The 27-year-old defender is a left-footed modern centre-back who excels in defensive situations and reading the game, while also being capable of launching counterattacks with long balls.
Another option is Nicolas Cozza. The Frenchman had his contract with VfL Wolfsburg terminated after his loan spell at Nantes. Cozza is a more traditional defender who relies on his physical prowess and long balls rather than being comfortable in possession.
During his spell with the Ligue 1 side, the 27-year-old centre-back played 73 times, registering one goal and two assists. Last season, he was unable to save Nantes from relegation.
Apart from them, there are other well-known names available, such as former Villa man Axel Tuanzebe, who is still 28 years old and featured at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with DR Congo, veteran defender Francesco Acerbi, David Alaba, who has been prone to injuries lately, and former Brighton man Adam Webster.
On the attacking side, there are more notable figures available. One name who could be snapped up in an emergency is pacey winger Adama Traore. The 30-year-old wide man was released by West Ham following their relegation. Last season, he made 12 appearances for the Hammers in the second half of the campaign and provided two assists, both in the FA Cup.
Unfortunately, the former Wolves and Barcelona man mainly excels in dribbling and pace. He lacks clinical finishing, while his passing and crossing, pressing and defensive contributions have also been inconsistent.
Another notable figure is England international Raheem Sterling. The 31-year-old forward had a disappointing stint with Feyenoord last season, registering only one assist in eight appearances. His form had already been declining, with low xG, xA and successful dribble numbers according to FotMob. It could be a huge gamble if Villa opt to sign him, as he is no longer the player he once was.
Then there is a promising name in Dutchman Myron Boadu. He played for PSV last season and featured in 17 matches, scoring three goals. Unfortunately, the 25-year-old frontman has one serious issue: his physical fitness and injury record. Last season, the former Monaco man missed 16 games during his brief spell with the Eredivisie giant.
The final name is quite underrated. He is Japanese attacking midfielder Ryotaro Ito. He was recently released by Belgian side Sint-Truiden after making 110 appearances, scoring 14 goals and providing 19 assists. The 28-year-old midfielder could be signed as Buendia’s deputy and could also be deployed as a wide player if necessary.
Apart from them, several other well-known players are also available, including former Villa man Bertrand Traore, Jadon Sancho, former Manchester United forward Anthony Martial, Adnan Januzaj, veteran goalscorer Mauro Icardi, Stephan El Shaarawy, Wilfried Zaha and former Real Madrid super-sub Joselu.
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