Aston Villa could be tempted to revisit their interest in a former transfer target, as one of Unai Emery’s former players could be available this summer.
After ending the 2023/24 campaign in fourth, Aston Villa secured their wildest dream of returning to the Champions League.
Unai Emery’s first full season at Villa Park was one to remember as the Spaniard drove his squad to new heights, embarking on a successful Premier League journey and a quest to the semi-final of the Europa Conference League.
Now, the manager will turn his attention to making improvements to his squad, joining forces with Monchi to ensure fresh star talent is welcomed to the club in preparation for next term.
Several players have already been linked with a potential move to Villa however, an update on the status of a former target could also tempt Emery to reconnect with one of his former students.
Aston Villa were interested in Emile Smith Rowe in the 2021 transfer window
Managed by Emery at Arsenal, Emile Smith Rowe is a talent Villa were interested in back in 2021 when the Gunners rejected a bid of £30m for the midfielder.
Now, the Midlands club could look to resurface interest in the 23-year-old, whose future is now reported to be uncertain at his boyhood club, as relayed by Fabrizio Romano who provided an update via The Daily Briefing.
“I’m aware of talk of a meeting being scheduled between Emile Smith Rowe and Arsenal, but my understanding is that nothing has been decided on this yet.
“I think it’s an open situation based on proposals, but at the moment I’m still hearing it’s a quiet situation. Let’s see in the next weeks if clubs join the race.”
Having secured just three Premier League starts in 2023/24 for Mikel Arteta’s side, there is a chance that the right proposal could lure the Englishman away from North London, a prospect that could tempt Emery and Monchi.
Emile Smith Rowe would be the perfect signing for Unai Emery at Aston Villa
Once lauded as ‘incredibly prolific’ for his form in the 2021/22 campaign by talent scout Jacek Kulig, things have taken a turn for Smith Rowe at Arsenal since his breakthrough that year.
The attacking midfielder became a firm starter that season, making 33 league appearances and contributing to 12 goals.
While it’s a shame for the England U21 star, it could be treasure for Villa, who could finally strike a deal for the talented Londoner this summer, a signing that would undoubtedly add quality to Emery’s side.
When it comes to attacking midfielders, Villa are relatively low on resources, with Philippe Coutinho set to leave, Emi Buendia preparing to return from an ACL injury and Youri Tielemans and Morgan Rogers being utilised in a range of positions.
In Smith Rowe, Emery could add a Premier League standard playmaker to his side, with the Arsenal academy product having the quality to reach the top level, as he showed during his breakthrough.
Injury and competition in Arsenal’s squad have made it difficult for the Englishman to find a way back in, making this summer crucial for clubs to present an attractive offer in a bid to secure his signature.
Villa would be in a good position to offer the midfielder an attractive proposition with Champions League football and with Emery having already worked with the youngster.
