Aston Villa In Surprise Move For Midfield Star As Transfer Battle Heats Up: Do The Lions Need Him? | OneFootball

According to a report by Radio Radio, relayed by Tutto Juve, Aston Villa and West Ham United want Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli, while Wolverhampton Wanderers are ready to join the chase. All three Premier League clubs plan to reinforce their squads in the winter transfer window, and they see Locatelli’s versatility as a key factor.

The Italian international joined Juventus on loan from Sassuolo in 2021 and completed a permanent move two years later. He has played nearly 200 games in Turin, scoring six goals and providing 15 assists, but his role under Igor Tudor no longer looks secure.

Clubs still rate Locatelli’s talent, and Juventus are willing to listen to offers, while the midfielder might welcome a new challenge in English football. Aston Villa view him as a possible replacement if Youri Tielemans leaves, while West Ham consider him as Guido Rodriguez faces an unclear future. Wolverhampton Wanderers, eager to strengthen their central areas, add further interest to the story. With all three clubs ready to bid, they look set for a tense winter battle over his signature.

Would Aston Villa truly need him?

Locatelli has earned praise for years. He possesses defensive balance with creative flair. The midfielder plays in front of the defence but often pushes forward with late runs, resembling Fernando Redondo but with more focus on attack. His vision, passing range, and ability to win back possession make him a good option in Serie A, which explains why Premier League sides want him. Aston Villa already boast midfielders like Boubacar Kamara, Tielemans, John McGinn, and Ross Barkley. Yet Amadou Onana’s injuries and poor form may force Unai Emery to look for another option.

The question of need grows more complex because Villa have been working to improve several areas. They tried to sign goalkeeper Senne Lammens, but he chose Manchester United for £18.2 million, so Villa may now focus on midfield. West Ham have tracked Locatelli for a long time, and Wolves are ready to rival them both. For now, Villa will keep Unai Emery, but they may still strengthen his midfield with an experienced Italian international. Nobody knows if Locatelli can match his Serie A form in the Premier League, but the winter market will soon show which club trusts him.