Aston Villa have reportedly identified Atletico Madrid's attacking midfielder Thiago Almada as a potential target to strengthen their squad during the January transfer window.
Villa's Mid-Season Ambition
Under manager Unai Emery, Aston Villa currently sit 3rd in the Premier League, trailing only Arsenal and Manchester City. The club's primary objective this season is to secure a return to the UEFA Champions League, having narrowly missed out last campaign.
Their quest continues this weekend with an FA Cup tie against Tottenham Hotspur, following a 0-0 draw away at Crystal Palace in midweek. With the January window open until the end of the month, Emery has publicly urged the club to be ambitious in the market to achieve their European goals.
The Almada Transfer Situation
According to reports from Spanish outlet Fichajes, Villa are showing concrete 'interest' in securing the signature of 24-year-old Argentine international Thiago Almada. The player's valuation is understood to be in the region of £22 million.
Almada's future at the Wanda Metropolitano appears uncertain just six months after his arrival. He has managed 15 appearances and two goals under Diego Simeone but has struggled to cement a regular starting role. The report suggests Sunderland and Italian giants Napoli are also monitoring the player's situation as potential suitors.
Profile of the Argentine Playmaker
Thiago Almada, who boasts 12 caps for Argentina, began his career at Velez Sarsfield before a high-profile move to MLS side Atlanta United in 2022. He excelled in the United States, scoring 26 goals in 83 matches.
A subsequent move to Botafogo was followed by a loan to Lyon, before his £22 million transfer to Atletico Madrid in July 2025. Primarily an attacking midfielder who can also operate on the wing, Almada would offer Villa a different creative option, competing for a role similar to that of Emi Buendia or Youri Tielemans.
With Emery stating the club is "alert" to opportunities that can "really improve" the squad, a move for a talented player seeking more regular football could benefit both parties. Whether Villa will formalise their interest with a bid for the £22 million-rated playmaker remains to be seen before the window closes.
