In a flurry of last-minute activity, Aston Villa have reportedly agreed a deadline day loan move for their young full-back Lino Sousa, who is now poised to join Rotherham United for the remainder of the season. This development marks another strategic loan departure from Villa Park as the transfer window draws to a close.
Lino Sousa Set for Third Loan Spell Away from Villa
According to prominent football journalist Fabrizio Romano, the deal for the 21-year-old left-back is now "agreed" and Sousa is "on the verge of leaving" Aston Villa. This move represents the third temporary exit for the Lisbon-born defender since his arrival at the club from Arsenal in February 2024.
Sousa, who has represented England at Under-19 level, is yet to make a senior appearance for Aston Villa. His previous loan spells saw him feature for Plymouth Argyle, where he played eight matches, and Bristol Rovers, where he made 29 appearances during their relegation campaign to League Two in the 2024/25 season.
Development Opportunity at Rotherham
Having failed to break into Unai Emery's first-team plans during the first half of the current campaign, Sousa will now have the opportunity to continue his development at Rotherham United. The Millers are currently embroiled in a battle against relegation in League One, providing the young defender with valuable competitive experience.
While the specific details of the loan agreement remain undisclosed, it is expected that Sousa will remain with Rotherham until the end of the season before returning to Aston Villa for another chance to impress Emery during the summer preparations.
Aston Villa's Deadline Day Activity
Sousa becomes the third Aston Villa player to depart on loan during transfer deadline day, following fellow young prospects Louie Barry and Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba, who have joined Stockport County and West Bromwich Albion respectively.
Additionally, Samuel Iling-Junior is expected to secure a fresh loan move following the conclusion of his stint at West Bromwich Albion, with the versatile left-sided player likely to join Italian club Pisa for the second half of the campaign.
Potential Further Business and Manager's Comments
Villa could also potentially facilitate the exit of defender Kosta Nedeljkovic, who has attracted interest from Serie A side Fiorentina. However, this deal presents complications as the Serbian is currently on loan at RB Leipzig, where he has made just five Bundesliga appearances.
Despite these outgoing loans, Aston Villa are expected to have a relatively quiet transfer deadline day regarding incoming players. Manager Unai Emery has indicated to the media that he anticipates no further arrivals before the window closes at 7pm.
"We don't have a lot of possibilities or opportunities to do something improving now," Emery stated. "We did everything we were planning. I'm sorry, it's completely done, I think, the transfer window for us."
One piece of business that could still materialise involves a potential adjustment to the loan agreement for Harvey Elliott. As it currently stands, Aston Villa are obligated to purchase the Liverpool midfielder for £35 million if he makes three more appearances in all competitions. This clause may be modified to ensure Elliott receives additional playing time without triggering a purchase that Villa appear keen to avoid.
