Aston Villa are reportedly interested in signing several key players in January, including a promising La Liga talent who has recently caught the eye of Premier League clubs.
Unai Emery’s side, already strengthened over the summer, are gearing up for potential mid-season reinforcements, with Villa’s recruitment team, led by Monchi, closely monitoring targets across Europe and South America.
Villa’s January Transfer Targets
While January may seem a while off, Aston Villa’s management, including NSWE and Monchi, are laying groundwork for what could be a busy window. According to reports, Villa scouts have been sent to observe 19-year-old French defender Nathan Zeze, signaling the club’s intent to fortify its backline.
In addition to Zeze, Villa are eyeing Villarreal winger Alex Baena, a player Emery knows well from his tenure at the Spanish club. Baena, a versatile forward, is a highly sought-after talent, but securing his transfer could prove challenging due to interest from Newcastle United and a substantial £50 million release clause at Villarreal.
Another top target for Villa is Boca Juniors’ Kevin Zenon. The Argentine has impressed both Villa and Premier League rivals, with Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle reportedly tracking him as well. Zenon’s skill and adaptability make him a valuable addition to Villa’s attacking options, though competition for his signature will be intense.
Christantus Uche A Rising Star on Villa’s Radar
In addition to Zeze and Baena, Villa are leading the race to sign 21-year-old Getafe midfielder Christantus Uche, according to Spanish reports relayed by Sport Witness. Uche, who joined Getafe in July 2024, has attracted attention from Newcastle United and Bournemouth, adding pressure for Villa to move swiftly. Uche currently earns around £150,000 annually at Getafe, where he has a contract until 2028 with an option to extend.
Originally from Campos FA in Nigeria, Uche moved to Spain’s Moralo B in 2022 and, after a successful stint with AD Ceuta, joined Getafe. Though Uche has played just 11 matches for Getafe with one goal this season, his versatility—having been deployed as both a midfielder and forward—has piqued the interest of Villa’s scouts. His adaptability could be invaluable for Villa as they balance domestic and European competitions.
Intense Competition for Uche’s Signature
With four years left on his contract, Getafe might resist offers for Uche, but Premier League interest is mounting, making a transfer possible. Villa, Newcastle, and Bournemouth are reportedly “in pole position” and preparing to “bid hard” for Uche’s services in January, a sign that Villa are serious about securing young, adaptable talent.
Aston Villa’s ambition this season is evident as they continue to explore exciting prospects like Uche, Baena, and Zenon. Their proactive approach to the winter transfer window demonstrates the club’s commitment to strengthening Emery’s squad for continued domestic and European success.