Aston Villa secured the services of promising defender Yasin Ozcan from Kasimpasa for around £7 million during the January transfer window.
The 18-year-old, regarded as one of Turkey’s brightest defensive talents, has been working hard at Bodymoor Heath ahead of his first Premier League campaign. Villa took a similar approach to his signing as they did with Kosta Nedeljkovic, allowing Ozcan to stay in Turkey to complete the season and ease his transition.
His impressive displays in the Super Lig convinced Villa of his long-term potential in their backline.
Reflecting on the transfer, Ozcan admitted the moment overwhelmed him emotionally.
“I was so happy when I found out—I nearly cried,” he said. “My mum shed a few tears too. It didn’t feel real at first—I couldn’t sleep that night. Everyone back home was proud.”
Determined to hit the ground running in England, Ozcan has been focused on his physical and mental preparation.
“I train an hour before and after every session. I also read for mental growth and take private English lessons to get past the language barrier,” he shared in March.
Upon meeting Villa boss Unai Emery, the message was clear: be ready, and learn the language fast.
“The first thing he told me was to work hard now and be fluent in English, so I’m fully ready when I arrive,” said Ozcan.
He also mentioned Emery’s role in developing talent like Jhon Duran, who flourished under his guidance and earned a high-profile transfer. Ozcan is optimistic Emery can shape his future in a similar way.
While moving abroad will be a big step for both him and his family, Ozcan is determined to make it work.
“It’ll be tough for them too—first time living abroad. They might struggle with food and language, but we’ll manage,” he said.
Villa view him as a future key figure in defence, and Ozcan is ready for the challenge.
“They want to see me dominating as part of a centre-back duo,” he explained. “My goal is to play for Aston Villa, win trophies, and eventually represent my country at the highest level—but right now, my full focus is on succeeding at Villa.”
