Aston Villa Midfield Target Fancies A Tottenham Move: Do The Lions Need To Force The Issue? | OneFootball

Aston Villa draw headlines for transfer links, yet another story shapes the winter market as Aston Villa watch Julian Brandt closely. The German international midfielder nears the end of his Borussia Dortmund contract, and that alerts several Premier League clubs, sensing an opportunity. At 29, Brandt is the kind of player who can make an instant impact, and his contract situation makes him a realistic target at a reduced price.

Borussia Dortmund now face a decision. They could risk losing Brandt on a free in the summer or sell him in January for a nominal fee. According to WA.de, Tottenham Hotspur hope to tempt the midfielder with the promise of regular football and a system that values creativity.

Aston Villa are equally keen, as their need for quality in the final third grows clearer each week. For Villa, who have struggled in front of goal this season, Brandt’s situation creates a rare chance to sign a proven player without paying a premium fee.

Why Brandt makes sense for Aston Villa?

DORTMUND, GERMANY – SEPTEMBER 21: Jobe Bellingham of Borussia Dortmund in action during the Bundesliga match between Borussia Dortmund and VfL Wolfsburg at Signal Iduna Park on September 21, 2025 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

Aston Villa would benefit by signing Brandt, especially as they look for ways to sharpen their attack. He can play centrally or out wide, and his vision and range of passing would immediately give Unai Emery fresh options. Last season, he scored five goals and provided 10 assists in 30 Bundesliga games, numbers that show his consistency and his ability to influence tight matches. Villa require that creative spark, and Brandt fits the profile.

Yet questions remain before such a move can happen. Brandt may hesitate to join a team in the relegation zone without a win, and convincing him to view Villa’s project as worthwhile is the club’s biggest challenge.

His defensive work and aerial ability remain weaknesses, and those limitations must be weighed against his attacking qualities. Reports suggest Brandt’s market value is €25 million, but his contract situation means Dortmund cannot expect that figure in January.

We reported earlier that Aston Villa and West Ham United want Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli, and there is also news that Aston Villa are set to offer a new contract to Morgan Rogers, yet Brandt appears to be the most immediate option. Ultimately, Emery must decide if Brandt can lift Villa’s attack, and Brandt must judge if England is the right step for the peak years of his career.