PSR regulations and Aston Villa are quickly becoming one of English football’s fiercest ongoing battles.
Despite pushing for back-to-back Champions League qualification, Villa may still be forced to sell a key player this summer before reinvesting elsewhere. It’s a growing concern for Unai Emery, with speculation mounting that this could be Morgan Rogers’ final season at the club.
Since joining from Middlesbrough in 2024, Rogers has been outstanding, but interest from Premier League rivals could now lead to his departure.
Latest on Morgan Rogers’ Aston Villa future
Villa have managed to navigate financial pressures in recent seasons, but reports suggest Rogers himself could push for a move in the upcoming window.
Unlike previous situations — such as Newcastle United’s interest in Jacob Ramsey — there may be no alternative sale this time. Instead, Villa could cash in directly on Rogers and make a huge profit.
Manchester United and Chelsea are among the clubs monitoring him, and the England international could fetch up to £90m — potentially becoming Villa’s biggest sale since Jack Grealish’s £100m move to Manchester City in 2021.
Replacing Rogers would be no easy task. The 23-year-old has contributed 18 goals in all competitions this season and, despite Ollie Watkins’ inconsistency, has emerged as Emery’s most influential player.
Villa could look for a big-money replacement, but a smarter, cheaper option may already be on their radar.
Reports from Brazil claim Villa are working on a deal to sign Southampton’s Leo Scienza, having sent scouts to watch him in the Championship.
With a £25m release clause, a move could be relatively straightforward.
Why Scienza could be Villa’s next Rogers
Another attacking talent dominating the Championship — it’s a familiar story.
Not long ago, Rogers was doing the same at Middlesbrough, proving he was ready for the Premier League despite initial doubts over his move. Two years on, he’s an England regular and one of the division’s standout players.
Now, Villa appear to be targeting Scienza in a similar mould. The Brazilian has excelled in the Championship and even impressed against Premier League leaders Arsenal in the FA Cup. Since the arrival of Tonda Eckert, his performances have elevated further, putting him firmly on Villa’s radar.
One key difference, however, is experience. At 27, Scienza is far closer to a finished product than Rogers was in 2024.
That may limit his long-term development, but it would give Villa a ready-made replacement. With 17 goal contributions this season and stronger dribbling numbers than Rogers managed in the Championship, it’s clear why former Brighton player Adam Virgo has praised him so highly.
