Aston Villa supporters are currently enjoying a season beyond their wildest dreams, with Unai Emery's side mounting a serious challenge on three separate fronts. After a stuttering start to the Premier League campaign, the Villans have surged into title contention and remain alive in both the Europa League and FA Cup.
Villa's Triple Trophy Charge Under Emery
The transformation at Villa Park has been remarkable. Following a run of just two defeats in their last 18 league matches, the club finds itself a mere six points behind leaders Arsenal with 17 games remaining. In Europe, Emery's expertise is shining through, with Villa sitting third in the Europa League's league phase, a competition the manager has won a record four times. The recent 2-1 FA Cup victory at Tottenham Hotspur further underlined their credentials as genuine contenders across the board.
With the January transfer window now open, Emery and the Villa hierarchy have a golden opportunity to strengthen the squad for the gruelling run-in. The club is keen to end a 30-year wait for major silverware, and strategic additions could provide the final piece of the puzzle. Here, we examine three realistic moves that could define their season.
Securing Defensive Cover with Oscar Mingueza
Aston Villa have renewed their interest in Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza, a target from previous windows. The 26-year-old Spaniard, a product of Barcelona's famed La Masia academy, is out of contract in the summer, meaning he could be available for a cut-price fee this month.
Reports suggest a deal could be struck for as little as £8 million, providing vital cover and competition for first-choice right-back Matty Cash. Mingueza's versatility is a key asset; he is capable of playing across the backline, which would offer crucial insurance for centre-backs Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres, both of whom have faced injury issues this term.
With back-up Andres Garcia struggling for fitness, Emery may see value in securing a proven La Liga performer to navigate the demands of competing in three competitions. Newcastle United and West Ham are also reportedly monitoring the situation, but Villa's project could be a compelling draw.
The Dynamic Midfield Drive of Conor Gallagher
One of the more ambitious links surrounds England international Conor Gallagher. The energetic midfielder, now at Atletico Madrid, has been identified as a player who perfectly fits Emery's system, which prizes dynamism and intensity from the number eight position.
Despite making 27 appearances for Diego Simeone's side this season, the bulk have been from the bench, and the 25-year-old is understood to be open to a new challenge. Villa's hierarchy attempted to sign him 18 months ago during his Chelsea days, and that interest has been rekindled.
Valued at around £35 million, Gallagher's acquisition would represent a significant statement. His relentless style could inject fresh momentum into Villa's midfield for the second half of the season. A loan deal with an obligation to buy is considered a likely structure for any potential transfer, easing the immediate financial outlay.
A Romantic Return for Fan Favourite Tammy Abraham
Perhaps the most sentimental move on the cards is the potential return of striker Tammy Abraham. Now 28, Abraham is currently on a season-long loan at Besiktas from AS Roma, where he has rediscovered his goal-scoring touch.
He is a beloved figure at Villa Park following a spectacular 2018/19 loan spell, where his 26 goals in 40 Championship appearances fired the club back to the Premier League. Emery was keen on signing him in the summer of 2023, only for a serious ACL injury to scupper the deal.
Abraham would offer proven competition and backup for star striker Ollie Watkins, a role that has been vacant since Jhon Duran's departure. However, a deal is complex. Besiktas hold an option to buy for £11.2 million in the summer, and Abraham commands wages in the region of £115,000 per week. Overcoming these hurdles would be a major coup and a huge signal of Villa's ambition.
In conclusion, Aston Villa's January strategy is clear: add quality depth in defence, energy in midfield, and a proven goal threat up front. If Emery can pull off even two of these three deals, Villa's dream of ending their long trophy drought could edge tantalisingly closer to reality.
