John McGinn is understood to be part of Aston Villa's plans heading into the new season
Vaduz, Liechtenstein - June 9: John McGinn of Scotland looks on during the International Friendly match between Liechtenstein and Scotland at Rheinpark Stadion on June 9, 2025 in Vaduz, Liechtenstein. (Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images)
John McGinn of Scotland and Aston Villa looks on during a friendly with Liechtenstein last month
(Image: Harry Langer/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images)
Aston Villa have reportedly told Everton John McGinn is part of the club’s plans for next season. According to The Athletic, the Blues have “shown interest” in the 30-year-old but the approach has been rebuffed by the Midlands club.
David Moyes is understood to be keen to strengthen his midfield and the Scotland international would have offered quality and experience - attributes valued as Everton overhaul the squad across a summer of major transition.
McGinn is a key part of Unai Emery’s setup and made 34 appearances in a league campaign that ran alongside the club’s progression to knockout stages of the Champions League.
The Villa captain made more than 30 appearances in each of the previous five Premier League campaigns.
McGinn moved to Villa Park from His, where he was managed by former Everton defender Alan Stubbs, in 2018.
Speaking five years later, Stubbs labelled McGinn as the best player he managed at Easter Road and said he had urged the Blues to swoop when he was made available in 2018.
He said: "I spoke to Everton when it became clear that Leann Dempster (the Hibs CEO at the time) was looking to lure one of the big boys to come and sign him.
"I told Everton to make the investment because I knew he would be a very good player and they could get him for £3m. What’s he worth now? £40m-plus? Typical Everton, they didn’t do it and now Aston Villa are reaping the benefits.”
The Blues are understood to be keen to bolster a midfield that has been boosted by Idrissa Gueye agreeing a contract that will take him into the first season at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Moyes explored a move for Newcastle United’s Sean Longstaff in January and he was on Everton's radar again heading into the summer, though Leeds United appear to be closing on a deal for the 27-year-old.