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Aston Villa preparing £15 million for “very destructive” La Liga midfielder

Aston Villa enjoyed a standout 2025/26 campaign, finishing fourth in the Premier League and lifting the Europa League under Unai Emery, a competition that has become something of a trademark for the Spanish manager.

With Champions League football now secured for next season, Villa are preparing for a crucial summer window.

However, the club must remain mindful of financial regulations, meaning any additions will need to be carefully considered rather than part of a lavish spending spree.

Villa Preparing Bid for Moriba

According to Football Insider, Aston Villa are considering a move worth around £15 million for Celta Vigo midfielder Ilaix Moriba.

The 23-year-old is attracting growing attention after a solid season in La Liga, and Celta are believed to be open to a sale as they look to manage their own financial situation. Villa, however, are currently reluctant to meet the Spanish club’s £25m valuation, instead weighing up a lower offer in the £10m–£15m range.

Moriba registered two goals and three assists in La Liga last season, helping Celta secure European qualification.

The Guinea international has been described as “very destructive” by Oscar Hernández, who worked within Barcelona’s academy setup between 2007 and 2017, highlighting his physical dominance and ability to disrupt opposition play.

Villa see Moriba as a potential addition to further strengthen a midfield already featuring Boubacar Kamara, Youri Tielemans and Amadou Onana. While no deal is close, he has emerged as a realistic option as the club explores value-driven signings this summer.

Barnaby Lane is a highly experienced sports writer who has written for The Times, FourFourTwo Magazine, Sports Illustrated, TalkSPORT, and Business Insider. Over the years, he's had the pleasure of interviewing some of the biggest names in world sport, including Usain Bolt, Rafael Nadal, Christian Pulisic, and more.

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