Aston Villa will head into the 2023/24 season with their sights firmly set on mounting a genuine challenge for European qualification.
Battling to win the Premier League title is probably too much to ask for, but Villa should be capable of contending for a place in the top six.
The club’s fortunes have improved since Steven Gerrard was sacked as manager, with Unai Emery making a big difference since he took over.
The Spaniard made two solid additions to the squad in January – Alex Moreno joined from Real Betis and Jhon Duran was acquired from Chicago Fire.
While both players have made impressive starts to life at Villa Park, more new signings will be needed this summer if Villa are to make progress.
With Emery guaranteed to backed in the transfer market, Villa could be an interesting proposition for sports bettors heading into the next season.
Competition is fierce at the top end of the table, meaning Villa could be a tempting price in the ‘finish in the top six’ market for next season.
Plenty of Villa fans may well be searching for the best places to bet on football if Emery manages to secure some top-class players this summer.
With that in mind, we look at three players who we believe would help Villa mount a stern challenge for European football if they join the club.
Samuel Chukwueze – Villarreal CF
Villa are reportedly keen on signing Villarreal winger Samuel Chukwueze, who could be available for around £15-20 million this summer.
The 23-year-old has netted 11 goals and 11 assists this season, helping Villarreal mount a serious challenge for European qualification.
However, with his contract expiring in 2024, the La Liga club may be willing to sell him this summer rather than lose him for free next year.
Chukwueze is familiar with Emery after working with under him at Villarreal and reuniting in the Premier League could be a tempting proposition.
Pedro Goncalves – Sporting Lisbon
Sporting Lisbon attacker Pedro Goncalves has attracted plenty of interest following a series of excellent performances in the Europa League this term.
His equaliser against Arsenal in the second leg of their last-16 tie laid the foundations for the Portuguese side to knock out the Premier League leaders.
Villa co-owner Nassef Sawiris is a big fan of Goncalves and is reportedly willing to splash the cash to secure his services this summer.
The 24-year-old would not come cheap, but he has the ability to turn Villa into serious contenders for European qualification next season.
Jonathan David – Lille
Ollie Watkins is a quality option up front for Villa, but they desperately need to add another top-class striker to their squad.
Lille and Canada star Jonathan David has repeatedly been linked with a move to the Premier League and he would be an excellent acquisition for Villa.
He has bagged 19 goals in 27 Ligue 1 appearances this season and Lille would demand a sizeable fee from any interested clubs.
Villa have also been linked with Tammy Abraham, but David is a more reliable finisher than the former Chelsea striker.
