Forward Evann Guessand, who was an unused sub in their 0-0 opening day draw against Newcastle on Saturday, has been their only big money arrival this summer.
Meanwhile, Jacob Ramsey departed for Premier League rivals Newcastle in a deal which could eventually be worth £44million.
Villa will receive an initial £39m, with a possible further £5m in add-ons. Ramsey's sale will help them comply with UEFA financial fair play rules, although they're not expected to be able reinvest much of those funds in the current transfer window.
Jacob Ramsey has departed Aston Villa for Premier League rivals Newcastle United. (Peter Schneider/Keystone via AP).
Jacob Ramsey has departed Aston Villa for Premier League rivals Newcastle United. (Peter Schneider/Keystone via AP).
Nonetheless, Emery insists Villa are working intelligently in the background to improve the squad before the window shuts.