Unai Emery has provided a clear insight into Aston Villa's strategy for the crucial January transfer window, as the club looks to bolster its squad for the second half of the season. With less than four weeks remaining to do business, the Villa manager has confirmed the club is active in the market but operating with financial prudence.
Villa's Window Activity So Far
Aston Villa have already completed their first signing of the winter, securing Brazilian winger Alysson in a deal worth approximately £10 million. The arrival marks the beginning of what could be a period of calculated movement at Villa Park.
In terms of potential departures, the futures of Leon Bailey and Louie Barry are under scrutiny. Both players have found game time limited during their loan spells at AS Roma and Sheffield United respectively, and could seek moves elsewhere this month.
Furthermore, the club remains in discussions with Liverpool regarding the possible early termination of Harvey Elliott's loan deal. Such a move would free up a valuable squad place, allowing Emery more flexibility to bring in a new face.
Emery's Transfer Window Philosophy
Speaking in recent press conferences, the Villa boss outlined a pragmatic approach. "We are alert. The club is working and if we can sign someone to help us and improve on something we need, we will do it," Emery stated.
He was quick to praise his current squad's efforts, which have seen Villa maintain pressure on leaders Arsenal, but acknowledged room for enhancement. "With the players we have, it is enough to compete because we are showing it the first four months. But for the second half of the season, with the same players, of course we can improve."
However, Emery tempered expectations of major spending, emphasising a model of smart recruitment. "We can sign players, only we can’t spend a lot. But we can do something, of course. Maybe as well changing someone. Last year we signed four players in January and let others leave. We are in the same situation now."
Targets and Objectives for the Season
The Spanish coach hinted that the potential departure of Elliott could influence the profile of any new signing, suggesting a shift towards more experienced operators following the acquisition of the young Alysson. "If he [Elliott] is leaving, we can maybe try to use the position he is [in] to let us work something [in the market]. Until now, we only signed Alysson because we believe in his potential. Of course, we are opening the door for as well some players with more experience."
Emery reaffirmed the club's ambitious targets, which include a strong finish in the Premier League to secure European football and a deep run in the Europa League. "How we are competing in the Europa League, we want to try to be a protagonist and hopefully a way for a trophy now. In the Premier League... Now we want to be ambitious to achieve our objective. That is Europe."
Despite the desire to strengthen, Emery expressed full confidence in his existing group should no further additions materialise. "In case we are not signing more players, I am really convinced myself to get the objective we have this season." The coming weeks will reveal how Villa's board supports their manager's vision in a pivotal January window.
