Aston Villa’s summer transfer plans are continuing to evolve as Unai Emery prepares for another season of European football, with several high-profile names linked with moves to Villa Park in recent days.
One of the most eye-catching reports has involved Liverpool attacker Cody Gakpo.
The Netherlands international has been mentioned as a player admired by Villa as Emery looks to add more firepower and versatility to his forward line.
While any move would be difficult to complete given Gakpo’s status and contract at Anfield, the link highlights the calibre of player Villa are prepared to target this summer.
Another name is Fulham winger Harry Wilson.
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The Wales international has enjoyed an impressive spell at Craven Cottage, bagging 10 Premier League goals last term, and has reportedly attracted major interest from Villa as the club assess ways of adding greater depth in wide areas.
Wilson’s creativity, set-piece quality and Premier League experience on a free transfer make him an attractive option for a side looking to strengthen multiple attacking positions.
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Those links underline Villa’s ambition.
Despite continuing to establish themselves among the Premier League’s strongest sides, Emery and the club’s recruitment team remain determined to improve the squad wherever possible, despite PSR restrictions.
However, alongside plans for new arrivals, Villa are also facing uncertainty surrounding one of their most important players.
Emiliano Martínez’s future has become a major talking point once again.
The Argentina international remains one of the world’s best goalkeepers and has played a huge role in Villa’s rise under Emery. His leadership, personality and ability to produce decisive moments have made him a fan favourite.
Yet speculation over a possible departure has persisted, with Juventus reliably believed to be in talks over personal terms with Martinez.
Villa have understandably been preparing contingency plans, and that is where James Trafford enters the picture.
James Trafford a ‘strong candidate’ to join Aston Villa if Martinez leaves
According to TEAMtalk, the Man City keeper is a ‘strong candidate’ to replace Martinez if the World Cup winner leaves.
The report suggests Villa are an ‘attractive destination’ for Trafford, who is expected to have several options available should he move on from City.
At 23, Trafford is considered one of the brightest goalkeeping talents in English football.
His calmness in possession, distribution and ability to play out from the back have earned widespread praise throughout his development.
Those qualities are particularly important given Emery’s preference for building attacks from deep and maintaining control of possession.
From Villa’s perspective, Trafford appears to tick plenty of boxes.
The £40 million man is young enough to become a long-term solution, already possesses valuable senior experience and would arrive with significant room for further development.
Working under Emery would also offer an opportunity to continue his growth under one of Europe’s most respected coaches.
Everything still hinges on Martinez, though.
Villa’s first choice would almost certainly be to keep their star goalkeeper, but nevertheless, successful clubs prepare for every eventuality.
With links to ambitious attacking targets such as Gakpo and Wilson showing Villa’s intent, it is clear planning is already underway across multiple positions.
If Martinez does move on, Trafford appears to be one of the leading names under consideration to become Villa’s next number one.
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Contact has been made.
