Aston Villa and Chelsea Target Key Players as City and Spurs Eye Gakpo
After a dismal start to the Premier League season, Aston Villa is eager to enhance their squad. The team is eyeing Rafael Leão from Milan to address their attacking woes, alongside potential options Nicolas Jackson and Jean-Philippe Mateta. In addition to bolstering their forward line, Villa is also targeting Nicolas Raskin from Rangers to strengthen their midfield, especially after their heavy defeat to Brighton. They are also pursuing Joel Ordóñez from Club Brugge as they look to solidify their defense following setbacks with Taylor Harwood-Bellis. Meanwhile, Xabi Alonso, head coach of Chelsea, has not dismissed rumors regarding the departure of Enzo Fernández. Manchester City appears interested in the Argentinian, while Chelsea continues their pursuit of Alex Scott from Bournemouth, despite having three bids rejected this summer. They may pivot to Eduardo Camavinga from Real Madrid if needed. City and Tottenham have both expressed interest in Cody Gakpo from Liverpool. However, with no forwards leaving Anfield, Gakpo's transfer seems unlikely. The Reds are also facing challenges in securing Bradley Barcola but are linked with Lamine Camara from Monaco to fill a gap in midfield. In the Championship, Sheffield United is looking to enhance their central defense after two goalless draws. They are considering free agent Adam Webster. Wrexham is pursuing Pavel Sulc from Lyon, valued at around £10m, while also eyeing Jacques Ekomié from Angers, despite competition from West Ham, who are preparing for potential interest in El Hadji Malick Diouf from Brentford.
Source: The Guardian Sport - 2026-08-25