- Aston Villa are said to be “the most attractive option” for RB Leipzig midfielder Eljif Elmas
- The North Macedonian spent the season on loan at Napoli
- Napoli had a €17 million (£14.7 million) buy option that they deemed too high
Aston Villa are leading the race to sign North Macedonian midfielder Eljif Elmas, after reports state they recently launched an initial enquiry. Elmas seems likely to depart RB Leipzig with his preference a move either to the Serie A or Premier League.
The current situation surrounding Elmas stems from a complicated couple of loans and expiring contract options between Germany and Italy. The 26-year-old midfielder spent the previous season back on loan at Napoli, the very club he previously enjoyed immense success.
Despite making 44 appearances in all competitions and earning high praise from manager Antonio Conte for his work ethic and technical displays, a permanent stay in Naples fell through. Napoli’s hierarchy decided against triggering the €17 million buy option included in the loan deal, as they deemed it too high.
Consequently, Elmas must now return to his parent club RB Leipzig, though they do not see him in their future plans. This development has forced his representatives to actively seek out a permanent transfer elsewhere.
Turkish giants Fenerbahçe are monitoring his situation for a potential reunion, but the midfielder is determined to remain in the top tiers of European football, making the Premier League or the Serie A his clear preference.
Villa interest
According to Tuttomercatoweb, this separation of ways has opened the door for the Villans, as Unai Emery views Elmas as an ideal reinforcement for his squad depth. As shown with the struggles during the winter months, Villa needs a deep squad to handle domestic duties and a demanding Champions League schedule, making technical versatility a premium requirement.
Elmas fits this profile perfectly because he possesses the unique ability to operate seamlessly as an attacking midfielder, drop deeper into a central pivot, or drift out wide to the left wing. His high-level experience in major European leagues and 77 international caps provide the maturity Emery demands.
From a financial standpoint, a transfer for Elmas is highly attractive to the Midlands club. Securing a versatile international midfielder with extensive Champions League experience for a fee hovering around €17 million represents immense market value.
This price point allows Villa to strengthen their depth significantly without taking a big chunk out of their budget and restrict further business. Financial rules continue to be a problem, meaning they have to operate smartly.
ReadAstonVilla verdict
For Villa, wrapping up this deal quickly would mark an excellent, cost-effective start to their summer business.
Overall, the transfer makes perfect sense for both parties. It grants Elmas the ideal platform to revive his career, while providing Emery with the quality squad depth needed to sustain a grueling Champions League campaign and remain among Europe’s elite.
