Unai Emery targets two Chelsea fringe stars as Aston Villa plot £85m summer raid

Aston Villa are preparing a major summer shake-up, targeting high-profile reinforcements from Chelsea as Unai Emery looks to rebuild following the shock departure of Youri Tielemans to Manchester United. The Belgian midfielder's unexpected exit has forced Villa into rapid action in the transfer market, already resulting in the acquisition of Joao Gomes from relegated Wolves and the record-breaking £50 million-plus signing of Swiss international Johan Manzambi from SC Freiburg.

With midfield reinforcements secured, Emery’s attention has now shifted to the attacking line. The club is reportedly set for a blockbuster transfer, as Morgan Rogers is strongly linked with a sensational £116 million move to Chelsea. Should this Premier League record-breaking deal go through, Villa are expected to immediately reinvest the windfall, with a double raid on Chelsea firmly in their sights.

According to reports from Teamtalk.com, Emery has identified Alejandro Garnacho and Nicolas Jackson as primary targets. Both players have struggled to cement their places under Xabi Alonso at Stamford Bridge and could be available if Villa meet the combined valuation of approximately £85 million. Jackson, in particular, has emerged as Emery’s preferred option, while Garnacho’s future remains uncertain, pending the potential arrival of Rogers at Chelsea.

The pursuit of Jackson comes after Bayern Munich decided against making his loan move permanent, despite the Senegalese striker’s return of 11 goals during his stint in Germany last season. Villa are reportedly considering a creative approach, proposing an initial loan for Jackson with a purchase option that could be triggered in 2027.

Meanwhile, Villa’s attacking overhaul is expected to continue, with planned exits for Evann Guessand and Leon Bailey. These moves are designed to free up space and resources for Emery’s ambitious recruitment drive as he seeks to reshape the squad for the upcoming campaign.

With the transfer window heating up, Villa’s aggressive strategy signals their intent to compete at the highest level, aiming to capitalise on Chelsea’s squad reshuffle and bring in proven talent to push the club forward.