Aston Villa could finally sign off on player exit as Openda open to Villa Park move
Aston Villa could pull off an incredible feat to bring Lois Openda to Villa Park this summer.
The Villans have thus far had a summer that most fans would describe as uneventful. Other than the high that comes with transfer speculation, Villa have not made the impact hoped for in the market.
But their fates could be about to change, and Lois Openda could land in the Premier League next season. Villa will just need to make one significant change to make it happen.
Villa must sell Ollie Watkins to sign Openda
Ollie Watkins has been linked with a Villa Park exit this summer, with Manchester United among the clubs interested.
Until this point, Villa have been determined to keep their player. However, that could all change given the latest transfer news.
As reported by Sacha Tavolieri via X on Wednesday (30 July), Villa is now an option for Openda. The interest is mutual and there has been contact between the two parties for several months.
However, the Villans must sell Watkins before moving for an attacking player in the coming weeks.
This will come as a huge boost for United, who were considering offering Alejandro Garnacho to bring Watkins to Old Trafford. If Openda lands at Villa Park, this deal could satisfy not one, not two, but several parties.
Openda would be a great signing
The Belgium international could finally land in the Premier League, and Villa must make sure to be the club that makes it happen.
Since signing for RB Leipzig from RC Lens in 2023, Openda has netted 41 goals in two seasons for the German club.
While his goalscoring numbers halved in 2024/25, the centre-forward’s season was more complete, providing 11 assists alongside his 13 goals.
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 2023/24 | 45 | 28 | 7 |
| 2024/25 | 45 | 13 | 11 |
This offers a striking similarity to Watkins, who is known for feeding his teammates as well as his lethal right foot. As a result, Openda could be a good option to replace the Englishman if he leaves the club.
Therefore, to avoid being left with few viable options in the coming weeks, Villa should take the necessary steps to sign Openda this summer.
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