Aston Villa Lose Race To Crystal Palace For This Centre-Back’s Signing: Why Is This A Setback For The Lions? | OneFootball

Graeme Bailey reports to TBR Football that Crystal Palace have reached an agreement with Toulouse to sign 19-year-old defender Jaydee Canvot for around £25 million. He has been the talk of the town around Europe, and his performances at this age have earned him a special place. The deal did not happen suddenly, as many clubs were keeping an eye on Canvot. Aston Villa were also among the clubs that showed keen interest in the young player.

Until recently, it seemed that Villa were firmly in the race. We ourselves reported that Aston Villa were challenging Crystal Palace for the talented defender. However, in the end, Palace showed initiative and made the player a part of their project.

With this, another big story has been added to the Premier League. Meanwhile, Aston Villa are also focused on ensuring that their star goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez does not leave Villa Park at any cost, as this could prove to be a huge loss for them in the last days of the transfer window.

Big opportunity missed for Aston Villa

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – AUGUST 16: Fans of Aston Villa show a fan tribute to Unai Emery, Manager of Aston Villa during the Premier League match between Aston Villa and Newcastle United at Villa Park on August 16, 2025 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Now, if we look at the situation of Aston Villa, it is clear that Jaydee Canvot’s departure to Palace is a blow for them. Given the level of his ability being discussed in Europe, it is understandable that he can become a big name in the coming years. Signing such a versatile player is very important if Villa want to keep making it to European competitions consistently.

Canvot has the qualities that attract any top club. The Frenchman’s calmness on the ball, physical strength, and ability to deal with the press make him look much more experienced than his age. He can play in both centre-back and defensive midfield positions, and such players always have value.

If the 19-year-old had got a chance under a manager like Unai Emery, Canvot might have flourished even more. Emery’s tactics favour players who can switch roles and contribute in both facets of the game. Canvot could have played a key role in this system as a defensive midfielder or an advanced centre-back.

It would be unfortunate for Villa to now see the 19-year-old playing for a rival in the Premier League. It’s not just a matter of missing out on a player, but a huge gap in the long-term plan. In our opinion, Villa need to avoid missing out on opportunities like these if they are to get to the next level, or their rivals will slowly overtake them.