Aston Villa have just celebrated a glorious Europa League triumph, but attention is already turning to the summer transfer window as Unai Emery looks to build on that success. The Villans secured Champions League football next season by finishing fourth in the Premier League, and they capped off the campaign with a 3-0 victory over Freiburg in Istanbul to win the club's first major trophy since 1996.
Emery's Ambition for Summer Window
Emery, who has overseen a remarkable period of success since his arrival in 2022, is determined to strengthen his squad ahead of a crucial summer. Last year, Villa were forced into a quiet window due to the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) and UEFA's Squad Cost Rules (SCR). However, Emery hopes that will not be the case this time around.
Speaking to the Express & Star, the 54-year-old said: "We had some troubles at the beginning of the season, which, hopefully, this year we are not going to have. How we reacted this season, to finish in the top-five, makes sense of our way here. If we are frustrated and not getting the balance, it is a problem. Of course, we got the balance, myself and the club. But we must also teach our supporters the ambition, and if we are not getting there as well, keep balance."
Mingueza Emerges as Top Target
An ideal start to the summer for Emery would be securing the services of Real Betis defender Oscar Mingueza. The 27-year-old, who came through the academy at Barcelona, is set to leave Betis as a free agent at the end of the season. This presents Villa with a perfect opportunity to make their first acquisition at no cost.
According to The Telegraph, the Spain international has long been a target for Villa, who have consistently sought competition for right-back Matty Cash. Mingueza's ability to play across the entire backline could prove to be a shrewd pickup for Emery. Mingueza could see his best opportunity at centre-back, given Emery's recent preference for playing Victor Lindelof in midfield and Tyrone Mings' ongoing injury issues.
Competition for Signature
The outlet adds that Villa could face competition for his signature from Arsenal and Fulham. However, Villa have already been given the green light to pursue Mingueza, as Sky Sports reports he is keen to join a Premier League club. Unlike some of his other suitors, Villa can offer Champions League football and a team accustomed to winning under Emery.
Bringing in an experienced and versatile player of Mingueza's calibre seems like a no-brainer to improve the overall quality and competition within the squad as Villa compete on all fronts next season.
