Aston Villa head into the new season looking to build on one of the greatest campaigns in the club’s recent history.
Unai Emery guided the Villans to Europa League glory after defeating Freiburg 3-0 in Istanbul. Villa also secured Champions League qualification after finishing fourth in the Premier League.
However, the summer has brought significant changes to the squad that delivered that success.
Johan Manzambi is set to arrive from Freiburg after Villa hijacked Newcastle United’s move for the Swiss midfielder.
Modou Kéba Cissé has also joined the club as Emery strengthens his defensive options.
At the same time, Villa have already sanctioned several important departures to balance their finances.
Donyell Malen has completed his move to Roma, while Enzo Barrenechea joined Benfica earlier this summer.
Lucas Digne is also edging closer to a return to Paris Saint-Germain after reaching a verbal agreement.
The biggest blow arrived in midfield after Youri Tielemans completed his move to Manchester United.
Michael Carrick’s side triggered the Belgian’s release clause and handed him a contract until 2031.
Tielemans leaves behind a huge void after playing a key role in Villa’s Europa League triumph.
His departure, coupled with Amadou Onana’s serious World Cup injury, has accelerated Villa’s midfield search.
According to Sporx, Aston Villa are now preparing a €30 million offer for Galatasaray midfielder Gabriel Sara.
The report states Villa intend to submit the bid later this week as they look to move quickly.
Gabriel Sara has become one of Emery’s preferred targets after impressing in Turkey over the last two seasons.
The Brazilian joined Galatasaray from Norwich City in 2024 and has since registered eight goals and 15 assists in 87 appearances.
His current contract with the Turkish champions runs until 2029, while his valuation stands at around €27 million.
Villa have also tracked Gabriel Sara for some time and previously monitored him during last summer’s transfer window.
With Tielemans gone and midfield depth under pressure, Villa now appear ready to make their move.
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