Fakayejo Paul
Aston Villa have made initial enquiries into the exit conditions for AC Milan midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek. Unai Emery has identified the 29-year-old as a primary target to shore up his midfield following a devastating injury to Boubacar Kamara.
Kamara has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after suffering a serious knee injury during Villa’s FA Cup clash against Tottenham. With Amadou Onana also sidelined, Emery is desperate for the physicality and Premier League experience that Loftus-Cheek provides.
The State of Play
- Villa’s Move: Initial talks have taken place to understand the financial package required. Villa are reportedly weighing up a loan move with an option to buy, though Milan’s valuation for a permanent sale sits around €15 million.
- Milan’s Stance: In a surprising twist, AC Milan recently opened talks with Loftus-Cheek’s camp regarding a new contract, despite his reduced minutes under Max Allegri this term. No final decision has been made by the player, who is torn between fighting for his place in Italy or returning to England.
- The Competition: Villa aren’t alone. Manchester United have also held “exploratory talks” with the midfielder’s representatives as interim boss Michael Carrick looks for January reinforcements.
Loftus-Cheek is said to be “keen” on a Premier League return to boost his chances of making the England squad for the 2026 World Cup, but the ball remains in Milan’s court as they weigh their European depth against a potential windfall.