Aston Villa could be forced to accept a cut-price deal for midfielder Emi Buendía.
As reported by Jacob Tanswell via The Athletic [13 December], the midfielder could leave Aston Villa during the summer transfer window.
Buendía has made just seven appearances in the Premier League this season, all from the bench, and appears to have fallen down the pecking order at Villa Park. Therefore, the 27-year-old could be on the move, and his exit could open the door for Villa to sign a talented young Premier League gem.
At the time of his arrival, Buendía was Villa’s club record signing, joining from Norwich City in a deal worth an initial £33million [via BBC Sport, 11 June 2021].
However, ex-Villa scout Bryan King – speaking exclusively to Villa News – has conceded that the club will not get that kind of money back for the Argentine, who doesn’t appear to be in Unai Emery’s plans.
“It is always difficult to get your money back on a player who hasn’t been playing regularly,” King said.
“He doesn’t look as though he is in Emery’s thinking at all. Therefore, Villa have got to get him out the door and try to recoup as much of the fee that they paid for him.
“They’re not going to get their money back. However, what they can get is a good deal for him, and get his wages off the books.”
Unai Emery to allow Emi Buendía to leave Aston Villa?
Buendía joined Villa before Emery arrived at the club, and after missing the entire 2023/24 campaign due to injury, it appears as though the club have moved forward without him.
It does feel particularly harsh, as the injury wasn’t Buendía’s fault. However, at this point, it seems as though a move away might be best.
With the emergence of Morgan Rogers, it looks as though it will be incredibly difficult for Buendía to reestablish himself at Villa Park, despite some positive displays this season.
Therefore, the player should look to rebuild his career elsewhere, and could even push to leave in January.
