Aston Villa close to signing Goretzka
Aston Villa are reportedly close to signing former Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka, a 31‑year‑old German international who left Bayern after an eight‑year spell. The deal would bring Goretzka to Villa on a free transfer, with negotiations in advanced stages, according to Sky Sports News.
Goretzka, who departed Bayern Munich at the end of last season following the expiry of his contract, has scored 51 goals and provided 53 assists in 312 appearances across all competitions during his eight‑year stay at the Allianz Arena.
Sky Sports News reports that talks between Villa and Goretzka’s agent have progressed well, with negotiations now at an advanced stage. The Spaniard manager Unai Emery was disappointed to miss out on Bayern midfielder João Palhinha, but the free‑transfer move for Goretzka could give Villa a proven Bundesliga talent.
Meanwhile, Newcastle United have received a bid for midfielder Joe Willock from Turkish club Besiktas, according to Fabrizio Romano. Willock, who joined the Magpies on loan from Arsenal before a permanent move in 2021, has scored 11 goals in 168 appearances for Newcastle and the club must decide his future.
Serie A side Fiorentina are reportedly interested in Everton striker Beto if Everton’s Moise Kean departs. Beto, who joined the Toffees in 2023, has scored 25 goals in 111 appearances across all competitions, and a move could be triggered if Como’s bid for Kean is accepted.
Crystal Palace’s new manager Pierre Sage is also focused on transfer matters after a 2‑0 defeat to Everton. Palace star Jean‑Philippe Mateta is reportedly seeking a move, while Ismaila Sarr has attracted a £30 million offer from Galatasaray and has reportedly agreed on personal terms to leave Selhurst Park.
