Aston Villa Target Wants To Stay At Serie A Club: Why Is It A Big Setback For Unai Emery? | OneFootball

Aston Villa have caught everyone’s attention with their performances in the Premier League over the past few seasons. The team’s confidence and performance have improved since the arrival of Unai Emery. They have proved that the club are no longer just a mid-table team by making it to European competitions. However, last season showed that the offensive department still lacks consistency. On many occasions, the team felt the need for a player who could change the game from the wing and score goals under pressure.

This ongoing summer transfer window was full of expectations for Villa. Many names emerged on the radar, some were negotiated, and some deals remained incomplete. Attempts to sign Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio did not come to fruition. Meanwhile, Evann Guessand arrived, but Emery felt that a versatile winger was still needed in the final third. For this reason, the club started looking for options in other leagues as well

Aston Villa eye Alexis Saelemaekers

TURIN, ITALY – MAY 25: Alexis Saelemaekers of AS Roma celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between Torino and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on May 25, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

According to a report by French journalist Sebastien Vidal, Aston Villa had their eyes on AC Milan’s Alexis Saelemaekers. The club were looking at the 26-year-old Belgian player as an option who can play on both wings and also contribute in midfield by changing positions when needed. Villa were ready to bid for him in this window, but the player expressed his desire to stay with AC Milan.

This decision is a blow not only for Aston Villa but also for Nottingham Forest, as they were also after this player, as per the report. Given Saelemaekers’ versatility and experience, it is easy to understand why many clubs were attracted to him. However, the winger’s association with his current club stopped all attempts.

Opinion: Big setback and way forward

This setback is like a big problem for Aston Villa. Emery’s plans required a winger who could bring a balance of pace, perfect crossing and goal-scoring ability. Saelemaekers’ arrival would not only give Villa an attacking option but also flexibility in the team’s tactical setup.

A setback like this in the final days of the summer transfer window disrupts the club’s plans. Now they need to find new options immediately, or the gap will be felt as the season progresses. Villa’s current squad is good, but depth is essential to make a long run in the Premier League and the Europa League. Saelemaekers’ decision proves that just planning is not enough; the players’ intent is just as important.