Unai Emery has drawn a line in the sand. Youri Tielemans is not for sale.
Sources reveals that the Aston Villa manager is putting a new plan in place to block the Belgian’s exit this summer despite growing interest from elite European sides.
Villa’s difficult financial situation has been well documented. They may need to sell before they buy. But Emery has decided: Tielemans stays. Others can go.
‘Very reluctant to lose him’
The 29 year old has been outstanding this season. Thirty two appearances. Twenty six starts. Seven assists. One goal. But the numbers don’t tell the full story.
His absence through injury earlier in the campaign was a huge blow. Villa’s performances dipped. Since his return, they’ve improved. Coincidence? Emery doesn’t think so.
“Youri Tielemans is one of the players that Unai Emery would be very reluctant to lose,” a source said.
“They will probably look elsewhere in the squad to see if they could raise funds if they need to sell before they can buy players this summer.
“Unai Emery won’t want to consider losing such a key player.”
Interest is real
Top clubs across Europe are monitoring Tielemans’ situation. They know Villa’s financial constraints. They’re hoping to exploit them.
A strong World Cup with Belgium could intensify that interest. Admirers have been tracking him for years. If there’s any indication he could be prised away, they’ll move.
But Emery is determined to keep him.
Which players could leave instead?
Emery is planning to cash in on other players rather than lose his most valuable stars. Fringe players are likely to be first out the door. But there could also be first team departures.
Villa may be forced to sell before they buy. The financial situation is real. But Tielemans, it seems, is untouchable.
‘Top player, highly regarded’
Former scout Mick Brown said 12 May that Villa could be forced to sell Tielemans. But the tone has shifted.
“He was a big miss for Villa in that midfield and since he’s come back you can tell how things have improved since his return to fitness, so they don’t want to lose him.”
Top clubs will be interested if there’s any indication he could leave. He’s a real top player. Highly regarded across Europe.
But Emery has put up a wall. Other clubs will have to look elsewhere.
The bottom line
Villa need to raise funds. But Tielemans isn’t the answer. Emery will sell others first.
The Belgian is central to Villa’s long-term plans. And unless a ridiculous offer arrives, one that changes everything, he’s staying put.
Emery has made his decision. Now it’s about executing the plan. And keeping his star midfielder at Villa Park.
