Aston Villa makes late-window signings to spark revival
Aston Villa moved fast in the final days of the summer window, landing winger Jadon Sancho and midfielder Harvey Elliott on loan, and forward Evann Guessand on a deal. The squad, yet to net a league goal this season, needed fresh legs to spark their attack and add depth to midfield.
Club manager Unai Emery acted to strengthen key areas, hoping these new faces could lift Villa from its slow start. The signings show intent and urgency as the team seeks momentum in the Premier League.
Sancho joins Villa on his third loan in a row, after stints at Dortmund and Chelsea. He leaves Manchester United with Villa paying about 80% of his wages plus a loan fee. United had hoped to trade him this summer, with Roma and Dortmund also in the mix.
The England winger adds spark and skill on the flanks, filling the gaps left by loanees Asensio and Rashford and the exit of Leon Bailey. Emery now gains more options to push Villa forward.
Elliott arrives on loan with Villa set to buy next summer
Elliott joins Villa on a season-long loan from Liverpool, with a £35 million buy set for next summer. The England Under-21 star, once a Liverpool fan, shone at the European Under-21 Championship, netting five goals and earning Player of the Tournament. Villa gained a young, skilled midfielder ready to shape their play.
Limited time at Anfield last season pushed Elliott to seek regular play. The loan has a sell-on and buy-back clause, keeping Liverpool in future talks. Villa won the race for his signature, beating RB Leipzig. Before that, West Ham and Fulham had also shown interest. The deal gives Elliott a chance to grow and Villa a key midfield boost.
In early August, Villa signed Evann Guessand from Nice for around €35 million. The 24-year-old striker, once a French youth international, scored 22 goals and set up 16 in 120 Ligue 1 matches, including 12 last season. Guessand chose Villa over a big offer from Saudi side Neom SC, signing a five-year deal. He praised the club for its 'history, pride, passion'.
Martínez remains at Villa after loan move fails
Meanwhile, Villa goalkeeper Emi Martínez stays after a move fell through. He missed the 3-0 loss to Crystal Palace as Man United’s loan bid was denied, and Saudi and Turkish interest has yet to turn into offers. Marco Bizot, the new No. 2, started but gave away a first-half penalty. Martínez’s presence keeps experience in goal as the squad shifts.
Aston Villa have also signed defender Victor Lindelöf from Man United on a free transfer, agreeing on a two-year deal. The 31-year-old can play at centre-back or right-back, giving Emery more options in defence. Villa hopes his experience helps the team recover after a tough start in the Premier League.
