Aston Villa transfer news from BirminghamLive as reports from Italy shed light on Belgian winger’s intentions
Alexis Saelemaekers of AC Milan in action during the pre-season friendly match against Leeds United this weekend
Aston Villa’s interest in Belgian winger Alexis Saelemaekers has been thrown into doubt amid reports that the player has no intention of leaving AC Milan.
According to a report from Italian outlet Tutto Mercato, Unai Emery is keen on signing the 26-year-old to add more quality and competition on the wings.
It is claimed that Villa have expressed interest in the right winger and they could soon come forward with an offer. Premier League rivals Nottingham Forest are also claimed to be admirers of the Belgian international with 16 caps for his country.
He started his career at Anderlecht before switching to Milan in 2020. Recent seasons have seen him enjoy loan spells at Bologna and Roma, sparking talk of a move.
However, after two years on loan, it is claimed that Saelemaekers wants to fight for a spot at Milan. As Tuttosport (via MilanNews) report, this is especially true because the Rossoneri have appointed a new coach who “greatly appreciates his versatility”.
The report says that Massimiliano Allegri has asked the club to keep the Belgian, who in turn wants to stay at Milan.
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It promises to be an exciting season ahead for Aston Villa as Unai Emery’s side look to build on last season’s efforts and will look to finish even higher this time around.
Despite not achieving the same feat of the 2023/2024 season by securing a UEFA Champion’s League spot — the 2024/25 campaign proved to be a decent one for the Villains. Villa managed to get into continental football by qualifying for the Europa League and will play their third consecutive season of European competition.
It looks as though there is a lot to look forward to this coming campaign. And with that in mind, we have produced our Aston Villa 2025/26 Kick-Off special — our brilliant guide to the new season.
Our team will help you navigate through what to expect from your team this coming season, turn the spotlight on Emery while also providing in-depth analysis and opinion on your club. We look at the summer’s biggest signings, check out each ground, study the managers – new and old – and test your knowledge with our Premier League quiz.
And we also have a full fixtures guide so you don’t miss a game in what is set to be a thrilling season. The guide is available at retailers from August 6 but can be pre-ordered online now and it is a must have for any Aston Villa fan. It is the perfect accompaniment to the season and you can own it before the squad’s opening fixture of the Premier League when they welcome Newcastle United to Villa Park on Saturday, August, 16.
Priced £3.50, pre-order your copy now from our online store and get it delivered direct to your door.Available to purchase in most supermarkets, high street retailers and independent newsagents in Birmingham from August 6, 2025. For online purchases, postage and packaging applies. Worldwide shipping is available.