Aston Villa launch contact to sign “excellent” Real Madrid attacker in last-ditch move

Aston Villa Make Late Push to Sign Real Madrid Forward Amid Transfer Window Frenzy

Aston Villa have reportedly stepped up their efforts to secure a Real Madrid attacker, racing ahead of Premier League rivals in a late-window move.

Emery Acknowledges Possible Guessand Departure
It has been a hectic end to the transfer window at Villa Park. On Wednesday, Villa came from behind to clinch a dramatic victory over Red Bull Salzburg, while welcoming back key players Douglas Luiz and Tammy Abraham in the same week.

Abraham’s arrival, however, could pave the way for Evann Guessand to leave, with Crystal Palace reportedly interested in bringing him in as a replacement for Jean-Philippe Mateta.

If Guessand departs, he would become the second forward to exit Villa this month. Manager Unai Emery commented on the situation:

“It’s similar to what happened with Malen – three parts of this chapter: club, team, player. I was happy with him and didn’t want him to leave, but accepting a deal that’s good for the club and gives him the chance to develop elsewhere was the right choice.

We signed a striker and a winger; maybe the last matches were harder for him to start, so he decided to leave. We’ll continue with the players we have.”

Guessand’s potential exit could also open space for further arrivals at Villa Park, with links now emerging to Luis Henrique and a high-profile Real Madrid attacker.

Villa Launch Move for Brahim Diaz
According to TeamTalk, Villa have made a late approach to sign Brahim Diaz from Real Madrid this month.

The Morocco international has been on the fringes of manager Alvaro Arbeloa’s squad since returning from AFCON, and his representatives have reportedly pitched him to several Premier League clubs, including Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Aston Villa. Both Villa and Spurs are said to have submitted enquiries.

Diaz is seeking a fresh start following heartbreak at the AFCON final, where he nonetheless showcased his talent on the world stage, earning the Golden Boot after an outstanding tournament.

Former Madrid coach Xabi Alonso praised Diaz earlier this season, saying:

“I found Brahim in great shape. I know him well and understand the difference he can make, particularly in tight spaces. His positional awareness and skill are excellent, so his level didn’t surprise me.”