Aston Villa
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Aston Villa have reportedly begun club-to-club negotiations for one player linked with a move to Liverpool.
The Reds have already won the race for one of the most sought-after players in Europe this summer, beating top European clubs to the signing of Florian Wirtz.
Arne Slot’s side were initially not one of the clubs linked with the German international. But sometime around May, news broke that the club’s chiefs had met with the 22-year-old, and a move to Anfield was possible.
Shortly after that, things escalated quickly, and it was reported that the Reds were now leading the race for the German. Next, it was reported that Wirtz had said yes to Liverpool and was not interested in any other club, including Bayern Munich, who were thought to have received some assurances from the player’s camp about a move to the Allianz Arena.
And now after several rounds of bids and weeks locked in negotiation, Liverpool and Leverkusen have reached an agreement for Wirtz.
The player can be considered a Liverpool player, with only a medical standing between him and an official announcement.
But while Liverpool fans are still celebrating the news of Wirtz, it appears Aston Villa wants to steal a march on them in the signing of one of their targets.
The player in question is Real Betis winger Jesus Rodriguez.
Unai Emery’s side were initially said to be interested in the youngster, but they have now concretised their interest by initiating talks with the Spanish club.
This is according to reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano, who reports that the Villa have made “contact this week to start discussions” for the 20-year-old.
Liverpool scouts have been watching Rodriguez for some time now. The 19-year-old has caught the eye of elite scouts this season after being introduced into Manuel Pellegrini’s first team in October.
However, the latest report adds that Liverpool could lose out on the youngster, as Premier League rivals Chelsea have now made serious attempts to sign him.
🚨🟣🔵 EXCL: Aston Villa start club to club talks for Real Betis talent Jesús Rodriguez.
2005 born talent on shortlist of several clubs but Villa made contact this week to start discussions. pic.twitter.com/cXSG4Ys1pS
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 13, 2025
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