Looking ahead towards the summer transfer window, Aston Villa have now reportedly launched a mega move to sign a Ligue 1 midfielder who could become the perfect partner for Youri Tielemans.
Tielemans receives Team of the Year recognition
Having struggled to nail down a starting place at Villa Park in the early days under Unai Emery, Youri Tielemans was in danger of becoming a nearly man, having been touted for incredible things when he departed Belgium to join Leicester back in 2019. The season of 2024/25 has been the year of the Belgian at the heart of Villa's midfield, however, and he is now undeniably crucial to Emery's side.
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The 28-year-old has finally reached the potential that many tipped him to reach many moons ago, and even earned his way into Jamie Carragher's Team of the Season to recognise that on Monday Night Football.
Emery is well aware of Tielemans' importance these days too, having told reporters in April: "He’s a guy who can pick up balls and make the team play, but also break up play just as easily. It’s a joy to play with him—and very easy."
Finding the perfect partner for the former Leicester man hasn't been quite as easy, though. Amadou Onana initially got off to an impressive start, but injury setbacks remain a concern even though he is undeniably a potential world class player at his best.
Youri-Tielemans
Boubacar Kamara has also faced spells on the sidelines throughout his time in the Midlands. The fact is that Tielemans has been the consistent face at the heart of Villa's side, as they have continued to fight for a place in the Champions League. And they must hand the Belgian a partner with similar consistency.
Aston Villa launch mega Diarra move
One target who could be perfect for that role comes in Ligue 1. According to reporter Mohamed Toubache-Ter, as relayed by Get French Football News, Aston Villa have now launched a mega move to sign Habib Diarra from Strasbourg, who will allow their captain to leave if the right offer arrives this summer.
The 21-year-old, like the majority of his teammates, has enjoyed an impressive season under Liam Rosenior and could now be on the move as a result. Already a leader despite his tender age, Diarra ticks a number of crucial boxes needed to partner Tielemans at the centre of Emery's strongest side.
League stats 24/25 per 90 (via FBref) Habib Diarra Youri Tielemans
Starts 30 35
Progressive Passes 4.44 7.03
Progressive Carries 2.34 1.17
Ball Recoveries 3.45 4.35
Whilst the numbers show just how impressive Tielemans has been in possession this season, they also highlight that Diarra could complete the ball-carrying in Villa's midfield. Both players, looking at their strengths, would complement each other almost perfectly to hide any clear weaknesses in their respective games.
Analyst Ben Mattinson shared similar praise for the Strasbourg captain, dubbing the Aston Villa target a "strong ball carrier" and a "very complete midfielder" earlier this season.