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Aston Villa no longer alone – Everton and Fulham join Geny Catamo fight

Geny Catamo

Oeiras, Portugal – 07 25 2025: Francisco Trincao and Geny Catamo seen during Trofeu de Cinco Violinos game between teams of Sporting CP and Villarreal CF

Aston Villa are no longer alone in the chase for Geny Catamo. According to Portuguese newspaper Record, the Sporting CP winger remains firmly on the radar of several clubs despite recently renewing his contract until 2029.

Villa were previously linked with the 25-year-old, and now Everton and Fulham are also named as interested Premier League sides. Meanwhile, French club Lyon are described as the latest to “knock on the door”.

Sporting may have extended Geny Catamo’s deal, but the noise around him has not disappeared.

Premier League competition growing

Record state that Geny Catamo recently visited Sporting’s offices to review his contract. He secured a pay rise and an extra year, tying him to the club until 2029. His release clause remains €60m (£51m).

However, the renewal does not guarantee he will stay beyond this season. The report makes clear that several clubs continue to track him closely.

For Aston Villa, that changes the dynamic. Previously, they appeared as a leading English suitor. Now, they face domestic competition from Everton and Fulham, both explicitly mentioned in the Portuguese press.

As interest is now spread across multiple Premier League clubs, Sporting gain leverage. Even if the realistic sale price sits below the full €60m (£51m) clause – €20m may do it, as previously covered -, a bidding environment can quickly push figures upward.

French threat adds pressure

Lyon’s emergence introduces another layer. The Ligue 1 side are presented as the most recent club to make contact. Cross-league competition often strengthens a selling club’s position, especially when English spending power is involved.

From Villa’s perspective, timing could prove decisive. They already know the player’s profile and contractual situation. However, waiting too long may allow rivals to formalise their interest.

Sporting’s strategy appears clear. They have protected Geny Catamo’s contract and increased his salary, yet they have not closed the door to a summer departure.

What this means for Aston Villa

Geny Catamo

MUNICH, GERMANY – DECEMBER 9th 2025: UEFA Champions League – FC Bayern München vs. Sporting CP. Pictured: Serge Gnabry, of FC Bayern Munich, and Geny Catamo, of Sporting CP, in action

If Villa return, they will enter a more competitive landscape than before. Everton and Fulham offer alternative Premier League destinations. Lyon provide continental competition.

The clause stands at €60m (£51m), but the real battle may unfold well below that figure. Still, with more clubs circling, the eventual price could rise compared to last summer’s environment.

Aston Villa are no longer negotiating in isolation. And in transfer markets, that alone can change everything.

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