Aston Villa are preparing to launch a stunning £50 million bid for Everton midfielder Amadou Onana in a move that would see them go head-to-head with Manchester City for the Belgian international's signature.
The Midlands club have identified the 22-year-old as their primary midfield target as Unai Emery looks to bolster his squad ahead of their return to Champions League football next season. Villa's qualification for Europe's elite competition has provided them with both the financial muscle and sporting appeal to compete with the Premier League's established giants.
Summer Transfer Battle Looms
Manchester City had been monitoring Onana's situation at Goodison Park, with Pep Guardiola known to be an admirer of the powerful midfielder's attributes. However, Villa are now positioning themselves to hijack any potential move from the reigning champions.
"Villa see Onana as the perfect addition to their engine room," a source close to the club revealed. "His physical presence, technical ability and Premier League experience make him an ideal fit for Emery's system."
Financial Fair Play Considerations
Everton's well-documented financial situation could play into Villa's hands, with the Toffees potentially needing to sell players before June 30th to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules. The Merseyside club value Onana at around £50 million, a figure Villa appear willing to meet.
Key factors in Villa's favour include:
- Guaranteed first-team football in multiple competitions
- The project under ambitious manager Unai Emery
- Champions League football next season
- Potential for higher weekly wages than current Everton deal
What Onana Would Bring to Villa Park
The Belgium international has established himself as one of the most promising midfield talents in the Premier League since his £33 million move from Lille in 2022. Standing at 6'4", Onana combines physical dominance with surprising technical quality, making him equally effective in both defensive and progressive roles.
His potential partnership with Douglas Luiz could form one of the most dynamic midfield pairings in the top flight, offering Villa the platform to compete on multiple fronts next season.
The coming weeks are expected to be crucial in determining Onana's future, with Villa ready to make their move once the transfer window officially opens.
