Villa close to signing Germany midfielder Goretzka
August 22, 2026 16:39
Aston Villa are close to agreeing terms with Germany midfielder Leon Goretzka on a free transfer, with the club holding positive talks with the 31-year-old after his summer exit from Bayern Munich. The move would be intended to strengthen Villa's midfield while Amadou Onana is sidelined.
Villa had also pursued Joao Palhinha but that deal looks likely to go the other way, with Palhinha expected to join Benfica.
KEY CONTEXT
Goretzka spent eight seasons at Bayern Munich, where he made 312 appearances and scored 51 goals, and was part of the side that won seven Bundesliga titles and the 2020 Champions League. He has 73 caps for Germany and appeared three times at this summer’s World Cup.
Unai Emery’s squad has seen several departures in the transfer window: Ezri Konsa moved to Arsenal (initial fee reported at £51m), Morgan Rogers was sold to Chelsea for £117m, Youri Tielemans joined Manchester United, and Lucas Digne returned to Paris Saint-Germain. Meanwhile, Amadou Onana is expected to be out until next year with a knee injury sustained while playing for Belgium at the World Cup.
WHY IT MATTERS
Bringing in Goretzka would add a proven, experienced midfield option without a transfer fee, addressing a clear need while Onana recovers. The potential signing comes amid a period of turnover at Villa, with multiple first-team players leaving and the squad balance under pressure.
The club also faces uncertainty over the future of striker Ollie Watkins, who has attracted interest from Al-Hilal; manager Unai Emery has acknowledged offers exist and said he does not want to sell, but that circumstances could change if a suitable replacement can be found.
WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- Whether Villa complete the Goretzka signing and on what contract terms.
- Confirmation of Joao Palhinha’s move to Benfica.
- The resolution of Ollie Watkins’s future amid external interest and any resultant transfer activity.
- How Villa cover midfield minutes during Onana’s long-term absence and how they replace departed players.
KEY FACTS
- Leon Goretzka, 31, is available after leaving Bayern Munich this summer and is close to joining Aston Villa on a free.
- Goretzka made 312 appearances and scored 51 goals for Bayern over eight years.
- He has 73 Germany caps and played three times at the recent World Cup.
- Amadou Onana is out until next year with a knee injury suffered at the World Cup.
- Villa have sold or lost Ezri Konsa (to Arsenal, initial £51m), Morgan Rogers (to Chelsea, £117m), Youri Tielemans (to Manchester United) and Lucas Digne (to PSG).