Aston Villa in talks to sign Alejandro Garnacho from Chelsea

By Priya Menon — 21 July 2026 — 3 min read

Discussions for Garnacho’s Move

Aston Villa has initiated discussions to acquire Alejandro Garnacho from Chelsea. The proposed deal involves a potential loan, with Chelsea seeking a permanent aspect to be included in any agreement for the winger. Reports indicate that Chelsea is prepared for Garnacho’s sale during the current transfer window.

This development follows a significant transfer between the two clubs, where Morgan Rogers moved from Aston Villa to Chelsea. Garnacho, an Argentina winger, was made available for sale by Chelsea last month. Despite an initial valuation, the club remains open to a move that could see him depart permanently under specific conditions, even if it begins as a loan arrangement.

If the transfer is finalised, Garnacho would become Aston Villa’s fourth signing in a busy summer. The Midlands club has already welcomed Johan Manzambi, Joao Gomes, and Modou Keba Cisse. Player sales from Villa have also been notable, with Youri Tielemans, Donyell Malen, Enzo Barrenechea, and Lewis Dobbin having left the club.

Garnacho’s Impact and Future

Chelsea has been looking to offload Garnacho, who joined the club last September from Manchester United. His contribution at Stamford Bridge has been limited, with one Premier League goal recorded. The arrival of Rogers and Sporting winger Geovany Quenda has further highlighted the need to streamline the squad.

Garnacho has not rejoined pre-season training as he works towards a resolution regarding his future. Xabi Alonso, at his recent unveiling, mentioned that Chelsea is collaborating with the player and his representatives to find a suitable solution for all parties involved.

Beyond Aston Villa, Roma has also expressed interest in signing Garnacho. Additionally, the former Manchester United winger has attracted attention from clubs in the Saudi Pro League.

Squad Dynamics and Financial Considerations

Analysis suggests that Garnacho faced challenges in making a significant impact during his first season at Chelsea, particularly on an already crowded left-hand side. He accumulated Premier League minutes across appearances last term, averaging less than 49 minutes per game. This figure is less than what Morgan Rogers and Emiliano Buendia managed in the same position for Villa last season, sharing responsibilities on the left flank.

The average goal involvements also show a difference. Garnacho’s goal involvements averaged one every 243 minutes, compared to Rogers’ average of one every 90 minutes and Buendia’s every 190 minutes. Should Villa sign Garnacho, it might necessitate adjustments to Unai Emery’s system when the Argentine is on the pitch. While Buendia and Rogers offer versatility, able to play on either flank and move centrally, Garnacho tends to hug the touchline and stay wide. This would require Emery to adapt his attacking patterns or for Garnacho to show greater adaptability.

Chelsea has been active in player sales this summer, with outgoings helping to cover the cost of acquiring Rogers. The club has generated funds from selling players such as Marc Cucurella, Andrey Santos, and Tyrique George, with compensation from Manchester City for poaching Maresca also contributing. While players like Reece James, Palmer, and Joao Pedro are considered untouchable assets, other first-team squad members are expected to depart for substantial fees, including Garnacho, Nicolas Jackson, and Trevoh Chalobah.

Despite not participating in European competitions this season, Chelsea remains subject to UEFA’s financial regulations. Last summer, the club entered a four-year settlement agreement with UEFA for breaching regulations. This window, Chelsea aims to demonstrate progress in financial sustainability. The club generated significant funds from player sales last summer, and with the need to move on several surplus defenders and at least one striker, this summer could also see considerable trading activity.

Source: bbc.com