LONDON - In an intriguing move just days after selling Morgan Rogers for a record transfer fee to Chelsea, Aston Villa has secured the loan signing of Alejandro Garnacho. The 22-year-old Argentine winger is set to join the team from the Premier League champions, adding depth and international experience to Unai Emery's squad as they enter their fifth season under his leadership.

Garnacho, who was previously a Spain youth international, made eight appearances for Argentina including the title-winning Copa América in 2024. His time at Manchester United before moving to Chelsea saw him play just one season with the Blues, during which he was managed by Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior. Both coaches were subsequently let go as Chelsea struggled to maintain their top-four finish in the Premier League.

The move for Garnacho comes on the heels of another significant transfer involving Aston Villa. Morgan Rogers left Villa Park for Chelsea after a record-breaking deal, setting new standards for English player transfers. With Garnacho's arrival, Villa looks to bolster its attacking options and secure European qualification.

In related news, Austria midfielder Xaver Schlager signed with Nottingham Forest on a two-year contract as a free agent following the expiration of his deal at Leipzig. The 28-year-old, who started all four games for Austria at the World Cup, will join forces with former Wolfsburg teammate Oliver Glasner and is expected to replace England’s Elliot Anderson, who recently moved to Manchester City.