Aston Villa Make January Transfer Approach for Manchester United-Linked Midfielder
Aston Villa have made a formal enquiry about signing AC Milan and England midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek during the January transfer window, according to widespread reports. The Premier League club's approach comes amid speculation that Manchester United have also been offered the chance to secure the 29-year-old's services.
Loftus-Cheek's Milan Journey and Current Situation
Loftus-Cheek departed his boyhood club Chelsea in 2023 seeking fresh opportunities and guaranteed playing time, making 90 appearances across all competitions for the Italian giants. The rangy midfielder quickly became a fan favourite at the San Siro with his energetic, lung-busting performances in central areas, playing a significant role in Milan's Italian Super Cup triumph last season.
However, regular starting opportunities have become increasingly scarce for the England international this campaign, fueling speculation about a potential return to Premier League football. His current contract with Milan runs until June 2027, giving the Italian club a strong negotiating position.
Manchester United's Interest and Villa's Urgent Need
Earlier this week, multiple sources suggested Manchester United had been presented with the opportunity to sign Loftus-Cheek, with the Chelsea academy graduate reportedly keen to boost his chances of World Cup selection. While United are not pursuing permanent signings this winter, a loan move has been mooted as a potential option for the Old Trafford club before the January deadline.
Villa's interest appears driven by necessity, with manager Unai Emery facing a severe midfield crisis following devastating injury news. Key midfielder Boubacar Kamara has been ruled out for the remainder of the season with a serious knee problem, while Amadou Onana, Ross Barkley and John McGinn are also sidelined through injury.
This leaves Emery with just three available central midfielders: Youri Tielemans, Lamare Bogarde and 18-year-old George Hemmings at a crucial stage of Villa's season.
Transfer Battle and England Recall
According to reports, United's discussions regarding Loftus-Cheek have thus far been only 'exploratory' in nature, potentially giving Villa an advantage if they act decisively. The Red Devils risk being beaten to a deal by their Premier League rivals should they delay their pursuit.
Loftus-Cheek's international prospects received a significant boost in October when he was recalled to the England squad after a seven-year absence, coming on as a substitute in the Three Lions' 3-0 victory over Wales. Speaking about his World Cup aspirations, the midfielder stated: 'I think for me, first and foremost, is to stay fit, stay healthy, and keep playing well for my club. And if I do that, I think I've got a good chance, and who knows what can happen.'
Villa's Additional Transfer Business
Beyond their interest in Loftus-Cheek, Villa are also believed to be working on a deal for striker Tammy Abraham, whom Loftus-Cheek knows well from their shared Chelsea academy days and time together at Milan last season. Should Villa fail to secure Abraham's signature, Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta has emerged as an alternative option, though the 28-year-old French striker is also attracting strong interest from Juventus this month.
The coming days will prove crucial in determining whether Villa can strengthen their depleted midfield ranks with the acquisition of an experienced England international, or whether Manchester United will intervene to secure the player for themselves.
