Aston Villa in talks to sign Chelsea’s Alejandro Garnacho

By Arjun Sharma — 21 July 2026 — 3 min read

Aston Villa are currently in discussions to sign Alejandro Garnacho from Chelsea. The proposed deal involves a potential loan, with Chelsea seeking a permanent element to be included in any agreement for the winger.

Garnacho, an Argentina international, has been a subject of transfer discussions, with Chelsea open to a move that could see him depart permanently under certain conditions, even if the initial arrangement is a loan.

Transfer Discussions Underway

The talks for Garnacho follow a significant transfer between the two clubs, where Morgan Rogers moved from Aston Villa to Chelsea. This previous negotiation has set a precedent for further dealings between the teams.

Discussions have also included the possibility of Garnacho and striker Nicolas Jackson moving to Villa Park in a separate transaction. If the transfer for Garnacho is finalised, he would become Aston Villa’s fourth signing this summer, joining Johan Manzambi, Joao Gomes, and Modou Keba Cisse.

Chelsea had previously made Garnacho available for sale. The club’s manager, Xabi Alonso, has indicated that Chelsea is working with the player and his representatives to find a suitable resolution for all parties involved.

Garnacho has not participated in pre-season training as he seeks clarity on his future. Other clubs, including Roma, have shown interest in signing the winger, and he also has admirers within the Saudi Pro League.

Garnacho’s Impact and Squad Considerations

During his time at Stamford Bridge, Garnacho’s impact has been limited, with one Premier League goal to his name. He managed 25 appearances in the Premier League last term, averaging less than 49 minutes per game.

This playing time is less than what Morgan Rogers and Emiliano Buendia recorded in similar positions for Aston Villa last season. Garnacho’s five goal involvements meant he averaged one every 243 minutes, which contrasts with Rogers’ record of a goal involvement every 90 minutes and Buendia’s every 190 minutes.

The arrival of Rogers at Chelsea, along with Sporting winger Geovany Quenda, has increased the need for Chelsea to reduce the size of their squad. Chelsea had acquired Garnacho last September from Manchester United.

If Aston Villa were to bring in Garnacho, it could necessitate an adjustment in Unai Emery’s tactical system when the Argentine is on the pitch. While players like Buendia and Rogers offer versatility across flanks and a tendency to move centrally, Garnacho typically prefers to stay wide and hug the touchline.

Garnacho has operated on the right-hand side previously, scoring a goal in an FA Cup final win for Manchester United. However, his tendency to cut inside is less frequent. This characteristic would require Emery to be flexible with his attacking patterns or for Garnacho to adapt his playing style.

Financial Landscape for Chelsea

Chelsea has been active in player sales this summer, aiming to manage their squad and financial position. The club has ensured outgoings to cover the cost of acquiring Rogers.

Players such as Marc Cucurella, Andrey Santos, and Tyrique George have departed the club. Additionally, compensation received from Manchester City for Maresca has contributed to Chelsea’s financial movements.

Certain players, including Reece James, Palmer, and Joao Pedro, are considered integral to the squad. However, other first-team members are expected to leave for significant fees, with Garnacho, Nicolas Jackson, and Trevoh Chalobah among those likely to depart.

Malo Gusto is also facing an uncertain future, while defenders Benoit Badiashile and Axel Disasi are anticipated to move on. Despite not participating in European competitions this season, Chelsea remains subject to UEFA’s financial regulations.

Last summer, Chelsea entered into a four-year settlement agreement with UEFA regarding regulation breaches. The club aims to demonstrate progress in financial sustainability following the current transfer window. Given the need to move on several defenders who are surplus to requirements and at least one striker, this summer could see further significant trading activity for Chelsea.

Aston Villa’s total player sales this summer have reached nearly, with Youri Tielemans, Donyell Malen, Enzo Barrenechea, and Lewis Dobbin all having left the club.

Source: bbc.com

Arjun Sharma

Sports Reporter