Aston Villa news round-up: Man Utd make Watkins contact as agreement reached
Aston Villa are hoping to accelerate their efforts in the window ahead of the forthcoming Premier League campaign.
Villa looked set for a busy summer as they aimed to return to the UEFA Champions League next season.
However, things have not gone to plan, and Unai Emery has yet to welcome any big signings to Villa Park.
Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford has signed for Barcelona, even though some Villa fans would have liked to see him remain, and with Ollie Watkins linked with an exit, Villa have a lot of work to do.
Here, Villa News provides a round-up of the latest updates for the Villans.
Manchester United make fresh approach for Watkins
As reported by talkSPORT’s Alex Crook via X (24 July), Manchester United have made fresh contact with Villa over the potential exit of Watkins.
It is understood that there is nothing close between the clubs, and there has been no bid as United need to sell before buying. However, Villa value Watkins at around £60million.
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 2024/25 | 54 | 17 | 14 |
While Villa are not keen on selling Watkins this summer, it is understandable why a departure would be an attractive option. The England international was cast aside when Rashford arrived on loan in January, often coming off the bench during games.
Despite picking up more starting spots during the latter stage of the 2024/25 campaign, Watkins could still be tempted to move to a club where he will be an undisputed starter.
Villa agree new Boubacar Kamara contract
According to Jacob Tanswell (24 July), Boubacar Kamara has signed a new contract at Villa Park.
This comes despite the lack of UEFA Champions League football next season, which was believed to be a massive obstacle.
The news will be welcomed by Villa fans who view Kamara as a valued member of the team. Furthermore, Emery will be breathing a sigh of relief that he will not be losing another key player this summer, with Watkins’ future up in the air.
As it stands, the next point of call would be to recruit some new additions to play alongside Kamara during the forthcoming season. And with under a month before the Premier League begins, Villa will need to act soon.
Villa confirm Bodymoor Heath Lane still unavailable for autographs
Villa have confirmed on their website (23 July) that the entrance on Bodymoore Heath Lane to the training ground is still unavailable for supporters to snag autographs.
This is because of safety concerns as well as ongoing construction works, which have seen heavy goods vehicles in and around the entrance.
The club has apologised to supporters for the inconvenience caused. Many will no doubt be gutted about the ordeal given the star-studded squad Villa currently have.
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