Aston Villa Near Deal to Sign Free Agent Leon Goretzka

Aston Villa are nearing an agreement to recruit Germany midfielder Leon Goretzka on a free transfer.

The 31-year-old became a free agent after departing Bayern Munich this summer, and discussions with Villa have reportedly progressed well.

Manager Unai Emery wants to strengthen his midfield because Amadou Onana is expected to remain sidelined until next year after sustaining a knee injury while representing Belgium at the World Cup.

Villa had also pursued Goretzka’s former Bayern colleague Joao Palhinha, but the midfielder now appears likely to join Benfica.

During eight seasons with the Bundesliga club, Goretzka played 312 matches and scored 51 goals. He has also earned 73 international caps for Germany and featured three times at this summer’s World Cup.

The experienced midfielder collected seven domestic league championships and lifted the Champions League trophy with Bayern in 2020. His arrival would provide valuable experience after Villa lost several important players this summer.

Ezri Konsa completed a move to Arsenal on Friday for an initial fee of £51m, while Morgan Rogers joined Chelsea in a £117m deal.

Youri Tielemans moved to Manchester United in July, and Lucas Digne rejoined Paris St-Germain earlier this month.

Emery also could not confirm that England forward Ollie Watkins would still be at Villa Park after the transfer window closes, with Saudi club Al-Hilal showing interest.

Speaking on Friday, Emery said: “There is clearly a situation involving him. He remains our player, although we have received bids.

“My preference is to keep him, but circumstances may change. If a transfer benefits both the player and the club, and I am able to find a replacement for the squad, we will consider it, just as we have done with other departing players.”

Villa begin their Premier League campaign with an away match against Brighton on Sunday.