- Aston Villa are set to rival Liverpool for the signing for Enzo Le Fée
- Sunderland are said to be asking for £35 million
As the end of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign draws near, the transfer rumour mill is in full swing. The latest news is that Aston Villa and Liverpool are set to “battle it out” for Sunderland’s midfield maestro, Enzo le Fée.
SportsBoom has reported that the two clubs have been impressed by the Frenchman’s performances this season. The Black Cats want at least £35 million and will not let go of one of their prized assets without a fight.
Le Fée’s rapid rise
Le Fée’s journey to the top of English scouting lists has been rapid.
The 26-year-old initially joined Sunderland on loan from AS Roma in January 2025, playing a pivotal role in ending the club’s eight-year wait for a return to the Premier League.
After triggering a permanent £19 million move, he has flourished under the guidance of his former Lorient manager Régis Le Bris.
Le Fée has established himself as a dangerous creative technician, recording four goals and six assists in 31 appearances as of late April.
His ability to dictate tempo and disrupt defensive structures has earned him a 7.09 average rating on FotMob and widespread admiration for his tactical maturity.
His potential role in Unai Emery’s system
Unai Emery has a meticulous approach to his “No. 10s.” In his system, Aston Villa do not rely on traditional wingers. Instead, creative attacking playmakers operate inverted on the flanks.
Morgan Rogers, Emi Buendía, John McGinn, and at times Jadon Sancho fit this role. They are not classic touchline wingers who constantly beat their man. Instead, they drift inside and attack the box.
Villa have also yet to replace Jacob Ramsey. However, Enzo Le Fée could fill that gap. He thrives in tight half-spaces.
His ball retention is excellent, and he can turn under pressure with ease. These qualities would help Villa sustain possession in the final third. That is a key trait Emery values, as he aims to reduce reliance on transitions.
Le Fée would fit seamlessly into Emery’s system. He could offer more impact than Buendía and improve Villa’s overall creativity.
Ultimately, pursuing the former Stade Rennais FC player represents a strong opportunity to add quality in creative areas.
Interest from Liverpool FC adds pressure. However, the role already exists within Emery’s setup, which may give Villa an advantage.
Whether he moves to the Midlands or Merseyside, a £35 million fee is significant. Still, he has the potential to transform either side.
