The coming weeks could define a new era for Aston Villa and manager Unai Emery, with supporters on the brink of one of the club’s most significant modern periods.
Securing a top-five finish in the Premier League remains a key objective, but Villa also have a genuine shot at adding European silverware. A Europa League semi-final against Nottingham Forest awaits, and based on current league form, Emery’s side will be confident of progressing.
Lifting the trophy, alongside the possibility of Champions League nights returning to Villa Park, would significantly boost the club’s pull in the transfer market this summer.
Even before the window officially opens, Villa’s recruitment team has been proactive in identifying targets capable of strengthening the squad ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
Villa step up transfer plans
Recent reports suggest Villa are intensifying their preparations, with Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones among the names under consideration. A fee of around £30m has been mentioned, with the player reportedly frustrated over limited minutes under Arne Slot.
However, attention has also turned to Sporting CP defender Maxi Araujo. According to recent updates, Villa have joined Newcastle United in pursuing the Uruguayan, while Arsenal are also monitoring the situation.
Araujo’s performances in the Champions League have heightened interest, and Sporting are believed to be open to offers in the region of €50m (£42m), setting the stage for a competitive race.
Why Araujo could be Villa’s version of Fernandes
Villa have frequently struggled to contain Bruno Fernandes in recent seasons. The Manchester United playmaker has recorded 10 goal contributions in 12 appearances against Villa, consistently influencing matches.
In the current Premier League campaign, Fernandes has racked up 19 assists—far ahead of any Villa player—and is closing in on the division’s single-season record. His creativity and consistency highlight the kind of influence Villa have lacked in key moments.
While Araujo operates in a different role as a full-back, there are parallels in his attacking output and overall impact. Like Fernandes, he built his reputation at Sporting before attracting Premier League interest.
This season, Araujo has averaged 1.3 chances created per 90 minutes in Liga Portugal, placing him among the top-performing defenders in that category. He has also contributed three assists, suggesting he could provide valuable service to attackers such as Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers.
In addition, the 26-year-old has chipped in with six goals across 42 appearances, including two in the Champions League—further evidence of his attacking threat.
Defensively, Araujo has proven equally reliable, winning 6.5 duels per 90 minutes, a figure that places him among the top performers in his position. His ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch makes him an appealing option for Emery’s system.
If Villa can win the race for his signature, Araujo could offer a dynamic, all-round presence—potentially becoming their own version of Fernandes in terms of influence, even if from a different position.
