AC Milan's Ruben Loftus-Cheek. (REUTERS/Daniele Mascolo)
Aston Villa’s 2025/26 Premier League campaign has started in worrying fashion.
Five games in, Unai Emery’s side are yet to record a victory, with three draws and two defeats leaving them hovering dangerously in the relegation zone. The club was also dumped out of the EFL Cup at the first hurdle, losing to Brentford on penalties in the second round.
Even more concerning that the results themselves, however, is Villa’s toothless attack. With just two goals scored all season, fans are beginning to wonder what has happened to the likes Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers, who were regular suppliers last term.
While there is still plenty of belief in Emery’s ability to turn things around — given the progress Villa have made under him in recent years — issues in the squad are clear, and the club is already eyeing January as a chance to reset.
Aston Villa Monitoring Loftus-Cheek
According to Caught Offside, Aston Villa are monitoring Ruben Loftus-Cheek ahead of a possible move in the January transfer window.
The 29-year-old midfielder left Chelsea for AC Milan in 2023 and has since carved out a steady role in Serie A. However, whispers of uncertainty around his future have alerted Premier League clubs, with Villa among those keenly watching developments.
Loftus-Cheek, who has been described as “talented” by former England midfielder Owen Hargreaves, has made a bright start to the new season, with four league appearances and a goal, and recently returned to the Three Lions squad under Thomas Tuchel.
Villa are not alone in their admiration. West Ham and Newcastle United are also monitoring the situation, but Villa are believed to be seriously considering a bid as they weigh up midfield reinforcements to help turn their season around.
Loftus-Cheek’s contract runs until June 2027, but Milan are expected to review his situation in early 2026, which could open the door for a Premier League return sooner than expected.
For Villa, who desperately need more quality and control in midfield, Loftus-Cheek could be more than just a smart addition — he could be the player who steadies their season before it unravels any further.
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