Aston Villa’s revival under Unai Emery has restored their reputation as one of the biggest teams in the country and the Spaniard has them flying this term.
Not only are the Midlands outfit in contention for a Champions League spot, but they have also qualified for the last 16 of the Europa Conference League and will take on Dutch giants Ajax for a place in the quarter-finals.
The former Paris Saint-Germain boss has been savvy in the transfer market, managing to lure talents such as Moussa Diaby and Pau Torres to Villa Park despite bigger teams showing interest in the pair, and they have become important members of the squad.
Not only that, but Emery has also managed to get rid of some deadwood too. Out went Danny Ings last January for £15m, while young striker Cameron Archer was moved on to Sheffield United in a deal worth around £18m and this has given the manager funds to bolster his side.
This summer could see even more players in the Villa side moved on, with Lucas Digne surely being someone who Emery could sell for a decent fee, as he has failed to truly showcase his talents since joining from Everton two years ago.
How much Aston Villa paid for Lucas Digne
Following the arrival of Steven Gerrard as the new manager in November 2021, the winter transfer window a few months later was his first chance to bring in players to improve his squad.
Philippe Coutinho was his most high profile addition as the Brazilian joined on loan from Barcelona, while the likes of Calum Chambers and Robin Olsen also moved to Villa.
