Aston Villa are preparing to flex their financial muscles in the upcoming transfer window, with Unai Emery reportedly targeting a sensational double swoop for RB Leipzig’s Eljif Elmas and Torino midfielder Ivan Kone.
The Lions are determined to build on their European exploits and ensure the squad has the requisite depth to compete at the absolute highest level next season. Emery, alongside President of Football Operations Monchi, has identified the engine room and the attacking midfield positions as two critical areas requiring immediate elite upgrades.
The Eljif Elmas Situation
Eljif Elmas has found himself frustrated with a lack of consistent game time in the Bundesliga following his high-profile move from Napoli. The North Macedonian international is a proven winner, having played a pivotal role in Napoli’s historic Scudetto triumph, and his tactical versatility makes him an incredibly attractive proposition for Emery.
Able to operate across the entire attacking midfield line, as a traditional number ten, or even out wide in a fluid 4-2-2-2 system, Elmas would provide Villa with the technical security and creative spark they occasionally lacked during congested fixture periods last term.
Reports from Germany suggest that Leipzig are open to a sale if their valuation is met, and Villa are understood to have already established contact with the player’s representatives to pitch the project at Villa Park. With an estimated price tag around the €25-30m mark, the deal represents smart business for a player who has Premier League-proven pedigree and European experience.
Scouting Ivan Kone
In addition to Elmas, Villa are heavily scouting Torino’s powerhouse midfielder Ivan Kone. The 24-year-old has enjoyed a stellar campaign in Serie A, earning rave reviews for his combative performances, tactical discipline, and ability to break up play effectively.
Emery is keen to add more physical dominance and dynamic energy to his midfield layout, shielding the back four while allowing the club’s creative talents to express themselves further up the pitch. Kone’s statistical profile highlights him as one of the most efficient ball-winners in Italy this season, making him an ideal tactical fit for the rigors of English football.
Torino are notoriously tough negotiators, but the allure of Premier League football and the chance to work under a world-class manager like Emery could prove decisive in tilting the scales in Villa’s favor. Sources indicate Villa have sent scouts multiple times to watch Kone, with positive feedback on his ability to transition quickly from defence to attack.
Why These Targets Make Sense for Unai Emery
Unai Emery has transformed Aston Villa since taking charge, guiding them back into European competition and establishing them as a top-half Premier League side. However, the demands of juggling domestic and continental fixtures exposed squad depth issues, particularly in central areas where fatigue and injuries took their toll.
Elmas brings flair and creativity. His ability to find pockets of space and deliver precise through-balls would complement the likes of Ollie Watkins and Moussa Diaby. At 26, he is in his prime and hungry for regular starts, something Leipzig struggled to provide amid stiff competition for places.
Kone, on the other hand, offers steel. Standing at 6ft 1in with an engine that rarely stops, he excels at regaining possession and distributing simply. His partnership potential with current Villa midfielders like Youri Tielemans or Amadou Onana could create a balanced engine room capable of dominating games.
Financial and Tactical Context
Aston Villa’s financial position has strengthened significantly thanks to consistent Premier League revenue, European income, and smart previous sales. Monchi’s expertise in the market has been crucial, with the club operating within PSR guidelines while still investing ambitiously.
The proposed double deal could cost in the region of €40-50m combined, a substantial but manageable outlay. Both players have resale value, fitting Villa’s model of buying high-potential talents who can develop under Emery before potentially commanding bigger fees later.
Tactically, these signings align with Emery’s preferred 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-2-1 setups. Elmas could rotate with Jacob Ramsey or Morgan Rogers in attacking roles, while Kone would add competition and cover for the holding midfield position. This depth will be vital as Villa target another push for Champions League qualification.
Player Backgrounds and Career Highlights
Eljif Elmas arrived at Napoli as a teenager and quickly became a fan favourite, contributing to their title win with key goals and assists. His move to Leipzig was meant to be a step up, but limited starts have prompted him to seek a new challenge. Internationally, he is a mainstay for North Macedonia, showcasing leadership qualities beyond his years.
Ivan Kone has risen through the ranks at Torino, developing into one of Serie A’s most reliable midfield anchors. Known for his no-nonsense approach and aerial ability, he has drawn comparisons to top defensive midfielders. At just 24, his best years are ahead, and a move to England could accelerate his growth.
Potential Challenges and Rival Interest
Securing both players won’t be straightforward. Leipzig value Elmas highly after investing in him, and other Premier League clubs have been linked. Similarly, Torino will demand top dollar for Kone, with interest reportedly coming from clubs in Italy and Germany as well.
Villa must act decisively. The summer window is competitive, and failing to land primary targets could force them towards alternatives such as other Serie A midfielders or domestic options. However, Emery’s pull as a manager who develops players has been a major selling point in recent recruitments.
What This Means for Aston Villa Fans
Villa supporters have every reason to be excited. This double pursuit signals serious ambition. After years of steady progress, the club is positioning itself to challenge the established elite. Signing two dynamic midfielders would inject fresh energy into the squad and provide the tools needed for a sustained campaign on multiple fronts.
Fan forums and social media are already buzzing with anticipation. Many see Elmas as the creative missing piece and Kone as the defensive shield that could take the team to the next level. If both deals materialise, it would represent one of the strongest windows in recent club history.
Broader Summer Strategy
Beyond these two targets, Villa are expected to be active across the pitch. Strengthening the full-back areas, potentially adding another forward, and addressing goalkeeper depth have also been discussed. Monchi’s network across Europe gives Villa an edge in identifying undervalued gems.
The club’s owners have backed Emery’s vision, providing the resources for calculated risks. With European football likely again next season, squad rotation becomes essential to avoid burnout and maintain performance levels.
Emery himself has emphasised the need for “quality and character” in new signings. Both Elmas and Kone fit that profile — technically gifted, tactically aware, and motivated to succeed at a higher level.
Conclusion: A Statement of Intent
The pursuit of Eljif Elmas and Ivan Kone is more than just transfer speculation — it’s a declaration that Aston Villa are ready to compete with the best. Under Unai Emery’s guidance, the club has come a long way, but these signings could mark the beginning of a new era.
As the transfer window heats up, all eyes will be on Villa Park. Can Monchi and Emery pull off this Serie A double swoop? If successful, it could propel Aston Villa towards their highest ambitions in the Premier League and Europe.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. The summer of 2026 promises to be one of the most exciting in Aston Villa’s modern history.
