Aston Villa Make Opening Move for Midfielder Dubbed the ‘New Felipe Melo’
Aston Villa have reportedly made an initial offer for Almeria midfielder Dion Lopy as Unai Emery looks to strengthen his squad ahead of another season competing at the highest level.
Following a campaign that saw Villa secure Champions League qualification and lift the Europa League trophy, the club is eager to back Emery in the transfer market. Several targets have already emerged, including Bologna winger Jonathan Rowe, but attention has now turned to Senegal international Lopy.
According to reports in Spain, Villa have submitted an opening bid worth €17 million for the 24-year-old midfielder. However, Almeria are believed to value Lopy more highly and want negotiations to begin closer to the €20 million mark.
Lopy has established himself as one of the standout performers in Spain’s second tier and is widely regarded as one of the division’s most complete midfielders. Almeria signed him from French side Reims for €6.5 million, meaning any sale this summer would generate a significant profit.
The Spanish club are weighing up whether to cash in, knowing Lopy remains a key figure in their ambitions of returning to La Liga. As a result, talks are progressing cautiously.
Emery is said to view Lopy as the “new Felipe Melo,” drawing comparisons between the two players’ physical presence, defensive qualities and tactical awareness. The Villa boss previously worked with former Brazil international Melo during his time at Almeria and reportedly sees similar traits in Lopy.
Villa believe the midfielder has the attributes required to thrive in the Premier League, although discipline could be an area for improvement. Lopy collected 10 yellow cards in just 26 league appearances last season.
The five-cap Senegal international also brings valuable experience, having featured in both La Liga and Ligue 1, making him an intriguing option for Emery’s evolving Aston Villa project.
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