Aston Villa F.C. are reportedly preparing a major summer move for AS Roma winger Matías Soulé as Unai Emery looks to strengthen his attacking options ahead of the new Premier League season.
According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Villa have identified the highly-rated Argentine as one of their priority targets and are exploring a deal that could be funded through the permanent sale of Donyell Malen to Roma.
The transfer links have intensified following confirmation that Roma’s obligation-to-buy clause for Malen has officially been activated after the club secured European qualification. The Serie A side are expected to pay around €25 million for the Dutch forward, giving Villa fresh funds to reinvest into Emery’s squad.
Now attention has shifted toward Soulé.
The 23-year-old winger has enjoyed an impressive campaign in Italy and is widely regarded as one of the brightest young attacking talents in Serie A. His creativity, dribbling ability, and versatility across the front line have attracted interest from several clubs across Europe.
Reports in Italy claim Aston Villa have already “stepped up their pressure” in pursuit of the Argentine, with Roma believed to value the player at around €40 million.
Soulé joined Roma from Juventus in 2024 after a breakthrough spell with Frosinone, where he emerged as one of Serie A’s standout young players. Since arriving in the Italian capital, he has continued to impress with his technical quality and attacking intelligence. Fans and analysts in Italy have repeatedly compared his style to some of Argentina’s elite left-footed creators because of his close control and ability to cut inside from the right wing.
Villa’s interest also highlights Emery’s determination to add more flair and unpredictability to his attack.
Although Villa have enjoyed another strong season domestically, there is growing belief inside the club that additional depth is needed in wide positions if they are to compete consistently for Champions League football. Soulé’s profile fits perfectly with Villa’s recruitment strategy — young, technically gifted, and capable of developing into a world-class player under Emery’s coaching.
The potential deal could also become part of a growing relationship between Villa and Roma after the Malen transfer. Reports suggest communication between the two clubs has remained positive throughout negotiations, which may help accelerate discussions over Soulé.
However, Aston Villa are unlikely to have a free run at the Argentine.
Bournemouth, Atlético Madrid, and several other clubs are also believed to be monitoring Soulé’s situation closely, while Roma may only consider a sale if a substantial offer arrives due to ongoing Financial Fair Play concerns.
For Villa fans, though, the possibility of signing one of South America’s most exciting young attackers is already generating excitement.
If the move happens, Matías Soulé could become another statement signing in Aston Villa’s ambitious rise under Unai Emery — and perhaps the next star to light up Villa Park.
