Aston Villa are preparing for another season in the Champions League after an impressive campaign under Unai Emery, and the club are already looking to strengthen the squad during the summer transfer window.

The Villans secured qualification for Europe’s top competition by finishing inside the Premier League’s top four, while also ending a 30-year wait for silverware by lifting the Europa League trophy.

Following that success, Aston Villa are now aiming to continue building under Emery as they look to establish themselves among Europe’s elite clubs.

Although Villa must still operate carefully because of financial restrictions and Premier League sustainability rules, Emery has reportedly identified one player he is particularly eager to keep at Villa Park.

Emery Pushing for Sancho Stay

Unai Emery is pushing Aston Villa to complete a permanent deal for Jadon Sancho following the winger’s successful loan spell at the club.

Sancho originally joined Manchester United for £73 million but is expected to leave Old Trafford this summer when his contract expires, despite United holding an option to extend the deal by another year.

The former England international has spent much of the last two-and-a-half seasons away from Manchester United on loan spells with Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea and Aston Villa.

Emery is now reportedly encouraging Villa’s hierarchy to explore a permanent agreement after Sancho impressed during his time under the Spaniard.

However, any potential move may depend heavily on whether the winger is willing to reduce his wage demands.

Sancho Interested in Staying at Villa

Reports also suggest Sancho would welcome the opportunity to remain at Aston Villa if an agreement can be reached between all parties.

The 26-year-old is believed to value the stability and regular first-team football he has rediscovered during his spell at Villa Park.

Aston Villa are not alone in monitoring Sancho’s situation, though, with clubs across both the Premier League and Europe reportedly keeping close tabs on developments.

Despite that competition, Villa could still hold a strong advantage given Emery’s backing and the player’s apparent comfort within the current setup.

Emery Continues to Shape Villa’s Future

Emery’s success since arriving at Aston Villa has significantly strengthened his influence over the club’s recruitment plans.

After guiding Villa back into the Champions League and delivering a major European trophy, the Spaniard has earned considerable trust from supporters and the club’s hierarchy alike.

As a result, Villa’s leadership are expected to support Emery’s transfer priorities wherever possible this summer.

Sancho’s talent remains clear despite his inconsistent period at Manchester United, and Emery reportedly believes the winger could continue to play an important role within Villa’s evolving squad.

With the player interested in staying and Villa keen to strengthen further ahead of another demanding season, a permanent move for Sancho could become one of the club’s key transfer priorities during the upcoming window.