Aston Villa dream window as Rogers snubs Arsenal transfer and Barcelona raided

Aston Villa have work to do this summer. For all the plaudits that came with their run to the quarter-finals of the Champions League last season, Unai Emery's side won't be dining at Europe's top table again in 2025/26 after finishing sixth in the Premier League.

The wait for their first domestic silverware since 1996 also continued. To exacerbate matters, speculation is mounting over a number of key players while Marcus Rashford's wage demands appear to have scuppered hopes of a permanent arrival from Manchester United. As it stands, only Turkish teenage centre back Yasin Ozcan has come on board, but more are sure to follow.

Express Sport looks at what would represent the perfect summer at Villa Park...

Keeping hold of key trio

Villa are reportedly doing all they can to resist Arsenal's pursuit of Morgan Rogers. That resistance must continue through to September if Emery is to avoid losing a star he can potentially build around long term.

Rogers, 22, isn't the only player who fans will be anxious over. Rumours persist that the Gunners will renew their efforts to sign Ollie Watkins, while Manchester United are being linked with keeper Emiliano Martinez.

Villa keeping hold of all three players will help convince fans they are determined for a swift return to Europe's elite. On the contrary, the club could see its spine ripped apart if all pursue moves. Selling is not an option.

A big buy from Barca

In Fermin Lopez, Villa are being linked with one of the rising stars of Spanish football. Any transfer is likely to require a fee north of £40million, but at 22, Emery would be investing in a player with long-term value.

The Euro 2024 winner boasts a superb work rate and has already established a reputation for being creative and adept at exploiting space. He's tailor-made for the Premier League, and tailor-made for Emery.

Sell Ramsey for a big return

After an injury-plagued 2023/24 season, Jacob Ramsey needed to make a statement this time around. However, the 24-year-old failed to find his best form or command a regular starting place in Emery's line-ups.

He's now reportedly being considered by Tottenham and Everton. Both clubs are said to be considering £40million bids, and if Villa can sell for that figure, it will help fund a move for an upgrade in Lopez.

Bring back Jack

Selling Ramsey would also free up space for a player once revered at Villa Park to return. Jack Grealish may not have flourished at Manchester City last season, but he remains one of English football's most gifted talents.

The chance to return to his boyhood club, but on a stage where he's challenging at the top end of the table and not battling relegation, is one he would surely relish. His fee won't come close to the £100m he was sold for, and any fan resentment over his move to Manchester will soon disappear if he gets back to his best. He could even come in on loan.