- BILD reports that Aston Villa are targeting Borussia Dortmund striker Serhou Guirassy
- Guirassy is 30-years-old and has had a stellar campaign with the German side
- The striker position will only be a priority for Villa if Ollie Watkins departs
Aston Villa are entering a crucial summer transfer window as Unai Emery looks to fine-tune his squad for sustained domestic and European success. Following their return to the Champions League, Villa now has the opportunity to enter the elite-level market, with Borussia Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy the latest to be linked with the Villans.
However, despite some financial freedom, the club must still navigate strict financial boundaries, balancing squad progression against tightening regulations. Villa are tight with UEFA’s Squad Cost Rule (SCR) and are operating within a strict financial settlement limit following previous compliance reviews.
This agreement limits next season’s losses to €60 million (£52 million), requiring efficient transfer market work.
The club’s current transfer plans prioritise the signings of one or two pacy wingers, a shift in strategy from recent seasons, where Emery has targeted wide playmakers.
Yet, Emery always tracks market opportunities for any position, which is where Guirassy comes in.
According to a recent report by BILD, Villa have officially entered the race for the Borussia Dortmund forward. The Premier League side has lodged its interest and is closely monitoring the forward’s situation ahead of a potential summer move.
Despite the German side’s intent on keeping the striker, the player is reportedly open to listening to convincing offers from abroad. Turkish giants, Fenerbahçe, share Villa’s admiration and are actively pursuing the forward.
Tactical profile
Guirassy represents an incredibly attractive profile on the pitch, backed by an elite pedigree. Standing at 6ft 2in, he possesses the precise physical attributes required to thrive in the Premier League.
His tactical appeal is underscored by an exceptional 2025/26 season for Borussia Dortmund, where he spearheaded their attack by registering 22 goals and 4 assists across 46 total appearances. He finished as Dortmund’s top scorer with 17 league goals, whilst proving his ability on the biggest stage by contributing 4 goals and 3 assists in 10 Champions League matches.
Furthermore, lethal finishing ability, intelligent movement off the ball, and aerial dominance make him a constant threat in the penalty box.
However, despite his undeniable quality and tactical fit, a potential deal faces a significant hurdle. At 30 years old, Guirassy’s age may ultimately put Villa off from making a substantial, long-term financial commitment.
This summer, Villa wants to reduce squad age by targeting younger players with high ceilings. Offering a heavy, multi-year contract to an aging player carries distinct financial risks under current restrictions.
While Guirassy offers immediate, short-term firepower, Villa’s hierarchy must weigh whether a 30-year-old forward aligns with their long-term vision of sustainable growth and squad progression.
ReadAstonVilla verdict
Ultimately, the signing of Guirassy will come down to the future of Ollie Watkins. It is highly unlikely Villa would make a move if Watkins remains at the club, as neither the Englishman nor Guirassy would want to play second choice.
He would certainly serve as a more than capable replacement for Watkins, but overall, the deal doesn’t make too much sense for the direction Villa wants to go in.
