Aston Villa Want To Sign This 26-Year-Old Defender For Free: Why Will He Be A Huge Upgrade? | OneFootball

Aston Villa have built a team full of ambition, determination, and attacking flair, yet the club knows that they need to keep balance across all areas of the pitch for progress. While Bournemouth are not ready to sell Aston Villa target Antoine Semenyo, the management continues to explore new opportunities to strengthen the squad before next season. The January window often gives clubs a chance to act early, especially through pre-contract agreements that help them plan.

According to Birmingham World, Aston Villa have listed five possible players they could approach from January 1st for such deals. Among them, Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano is one of the most exciting options. His reputation across Europe speaks for itself, but securing him would not be easy.

Real Madrid and Liverpool are reportedly interested, which puts Villa in a tough race for his signature. Still, the club’s growing reputation and the project under Unai Emery could attract any ambitious player. The idea of signing someone with Upamecano’s experience shows Villa’s intent to compete more strongly at the top level. This interest comes shortly after we reported earlier that Aston Villa is set to receive an offer for Emiliano Martinez, suggesting that Villa might be preparing for a careful rebuilding phase if key players leave.

Why Upamecano would fit perfectly at Aston Villa?

FRANKFURT AM MAIN, GERMANY – DECEMBER 09: Dayot Upamecano of Bayern Munich looks dejected following the team’s defeat during the Bundesliga match between Eintracht Frankfurt and FC Bayern München at Deutsche Bank Park on December 09, 2023 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. (Photo by Neil Baynes/Getty Images)

If Villa sign Dayot Upamecano on a free transfer next summer, it would be one of the smartest moves in the market. The French defender’s pace, strength, and tackling ability could instantly improve West Ham’s defence. He will add stability to the backline that they often miss in tight matches. Along with his defensive skills, the 26-year-old’s accurate passing from deep areas would help the team build an attack more effectively. You need that quality in the modern Premier League, where calmness and control at the back often make the difference.

If the Lions bring in a player of his quality without a transfer fee, then it would let the club spend money on other key areas. However, his injury record is still a concern. If he stays fit and adjusts well to English football, Upamecano could lift West Ham’s level and turn their defence into one of the most reliable in the league.