Aston Villa are already positioning themselves for what could be another ambitious summer transfer window, and the latest developments suggest a potential midfield reshuffle alongside attacking departures. Reports linking Curtis Jones with a move from Liverpool FC to Aston Villa have gathered pace, while the future of Evann Guessand remains uncertain despite his recent struggles.
Villa’s resurgence under Unai Emery has put them on the brink of Champions League qualification, fundamentally altering their transfer strategy. Rather than simply reinforcing, the club is now targeting players capable of elevating the squad to compete consistently at Europe’s elite level. The interest in Jones fits squarely into that vision.
Curtis Jones: A realistic opportunity for Villa
Jones’ situation at Liverpool appears increasingly delicate. The academy graduate has struggled to secure a consistent starting role this season, featuring regularly but often from the bench. Across the current campaign, he has made numerous appearances but only a limited number of starts, highlighting his peripheral status in a highly competitive midfield. �
Villa News
More significantly, his contractual situation is a major factor. With roughly a year remaining on his deal and negotiations reportedly stalled, Liverpool may be open to offers rather than risk losing him for a reduced fee later. �
TEAMtalk
From Villa’s perspective, the appeal is obvious. Emery has had to navigate periods this season with limited midfield depth due to injuries to key players such as Boubacar Kamara, Youri Tielemans and John McGinn. � Even with reinforcements in January, the need for a technically secure, Premier League-proven midfielder remains clear.
Villa News
Jones offers versatility, composure on the ball, and tactical intelligence—qualities Emery values highly. At 25, he also fits the profile of a player entering his prime years, making him an attractive long-term investment rather than a short-term fix.
Competition and feasibility
Villa are not alone in their interest. Clubs across Europe, including Inter Milan and several Premier League rivals, have monitored Jones’ situation. � However, Villa may hold an advantage in offering regular playing time and a clear role within Emery’s system.
TEAMtalk
Another factor working in Villa’s favour is their recent transfer relationship with Liverpool. Deals involving players like Harvey Elliott suggest that negotiations between the two clubs are relatively smooth, which could help facilitate a move.
Financially, Villa must still operate within Premier League sustainability rules, but Champions League qualification would significantly boost their spending power. That added revenue could be crucial in securing a deal for Jones, especially if Liverpool demand a sizeable fee.
Tactical fit under Emery
Jones would likely slot into one of Villa’s advanced midfield roles, either as a number eight or in a slightly more attacking position. Emery’s system often relies on midfielders who can progress the ball under pressure and contribute both defensively and offensively.
His ability to carry possession and link play between midfield and attack could complement players like Douglas Luiz and Tielemans. Additionally, his experience at Liverpool—particularly in high-pressure matches—would add valuable pedigree to a Villa side aiming to establish itself among Europe’s elite.
Evann Guessand: A move still on the cards
While Villa look to strengthen in midfield, the attacking department could see departures. Guessand’s situation remains unresolved, with expectations that he could leave permanently despite being relatively new to the club.
The Ivorian forward only joined Villa in 2025 for a significant fee—around £30 million—but has endured a difficult campaign. � Injuries and inconsistent form have limited his impact, and he was loaned out to Crystal Palace in January. �
readastonvilla.com
Tribuna
Although he has shown glimpses of his potential, the loan move indicates that he is not currently central to Emery’s plans. Reports suggest that a permanent exit remains a strong possibility, particularly if Villa look to reshape their attacking options this summer.
Guessand’s profile—as a versatile forward capable of playing across the front line—means he is unlikely to lack suitors. Clubs seeking a young, physically strong attacker with top-flight experience may view him as a worthwhile gamble.
Strategic implications for Villa
The potential arrival of Jones and the departure of Guessand reflect a broader strategic shift at Villa Park. Emery appears focused on refining the squad rather than simply adding numbers.
Midfield is clearly a priority area. Injuries exposed a lack of depth earlier in the season, and competing in both domestic and European competitions will require greater rotation options. Signing a player like Jones would address that issue while also raising the overall technical level of the squad.
In attack, Villa may be looking for a different profile of player—perhaps a more clinical finisher or someone better suited to Emery’s tactical demands. Guessand’s departure could free up both wages and transfer funds to pursue such targets.
The bigger picture
Villa’s transfer activity must also be viewed in the context of their rapid rise under Emery. After narrowly missing out on Champions League qualification last season, they have responded strongly and are now firmly in contention.
That progress has changed expectations. Villa are no longer outsiders aiming for European qualification—they are a club preparing to compete with the Premier League’s elite on multiple fronts.
Securing players like Jones would send a clear message of intent. At the same time, moving on from underperforming signings like Guessand demonstrates a willingness to make difficult decisions in pursuit of long-term success.
Conclusion
The links between Curtis Jones and Aston Villa highlight a potentially significant move in the upcoming transfer window. For Villa, it represents an opportunity to add quality, depth, and Premier League experience to a key area of the squad.
Meanwhile, Evann Guessand’s likely exit underlines the club’s evolving priorities. Despite his relatively recent arrival, circumstances suggest that both player and club may benefit from a fresh start.
Ultimately, Villa’s summer business will be shaped by their European ambitions. If they secure Champions League football, deals like Jones’ move from Liverpool could become not just possible—but expected.
