Aston Villa ready £25m move to sign Diarra as Unai Emery plans exits
Aston Villa’s plans for the 2025/26 campaign are already taking effect, with Unai Emery preparing for another summer of changes.
With European football now secured at Villa Park for a third consecutive season, there is hope that Champions League football can now be reached going into the final game of the season.
It would be an incredible achievement for Emery, who has transformed Villa since joining two and a half years ago.
Now, the Spaniard is already preparing for the summer as he targets Strasbourg’s Habib Diarra as part of a squad overhaul.
Aston Villa chase Habib Diarra amid squad shake-up
Aston Villa’s PSR issues mean a high turnover of players is likely this summer.
Emi Martinez appeared to wave goodbye to Villa fans in Friday’s win over Tottenham after his recent exit speculation.
On top of this, Ollie Watkins has been linked away from Villa Park after failing to secure a consistent spot in the starting XI.
As a result, plenty of funds should flood into the club, and Emery wants to use this to sign Diarra.
| Habib Diarra at Strasbourg this season | |
| Appearances | 33 |
| Goals | 4 |
| Assists | 5 |
According to Sun on Sunday, page 55, (18 May), Villa are preparing to make a fresh move for the creative midfielder.
It is believed that the French club are willing to sell the 21-year-old for the right price, and the Birmingham outfit could make a £25 million bid.
Emery wants to move around some of his squad, which could make room for Diarra.
Everton and Nottingham Forest have been to Strasbourg’s game recently, but it is reported that Villa’s interest is the strongest.
Diarra would be a smart signing from Aston Villa
For just £25 million, Diarra would be a clever signing from Emery.
The 21-year-old has plenty of potential and is coming off the back of a good season in Ligue 1.
While it is unlikely that he will be an immediate star at Villa Park, he could be a good squad option as he develops.
With Jacob Ramsey’s fitness in constant question, the Birmingham outfit needs a new creative midfielder, and Diarra could be the answer to Emery’s problems.