Aston Villa are stepping up their search for reinforcements before the summer transfer window closes, and one of the biggest names now under serious consideration is West Ham United defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka. The former Manchester United full-back has emerged as a leading candidate as Unai Emery looks to strengthen the right side of his defense ahead of another demanding campaign that includes Premier League and Champions League football.

Villa have already been active in the market, but Emery is determined to add greater competition and depth to his squad. Right-back has become one of the club’s priority positions, with Matty Cash currently the only established senior option. While Cash remains a trusted performer, Villa believe additional quality is essential if they are to compete on multiple fronts throughout the season.

Wan-Bissaka has now entered the conversation following exploratory discussions between the clubs. Although negotiations remain at an early stage, Villa’s interest is genuine as they continue assessing several defensive targets before making a final decision.

The Birmingham club previously looked into the possibility of signing former Tottenham defender Emerson Royal, but that move failed to develop into a concrete transfer. At the same time, youngster Kosta Nedeljkovic continues to attract attention from Rangers and other clubs, increasing Villa’s desire to secure another experienced right-back before the transfer deadline.

West Ham are believed to be open to selling Wan-Bissaka if the right offer arrives. Despite handing the defender a long-term contract after his move from Manchester United in 2024, the Hammers could now be willing to cash in following their disappointing relegation from the Premier League.

The London club endured a miserable campaign that ended with a return to the Championship for the first time since 2012. Several senior players are now expected to leave as West Ham reshape their squad, and Wan-Bissaka is among those whose future remains uncertain.

Although his domestic season was frustrating, the 28-year-old reminded everyone of his quality during this summer’s FIFA World Cup. Representing DR Congo, Wan-Bissaka started every match and delivered several impressive defensive performances against elite opposition.

His displays helped DR Congo earn a valuable draw against Portugal, while they pushed England close to a major upset before eventually falling late in the knockout stages. Those performances significantly boosted his reputation and reminded Premier League clubs why he was once regarded as one of England’s finest defensive full-backs.

For Aston Villa, his experience could prove invaluable. Wan-Bissaka has accumulated hundreds of appearances at the highest level, including five seasons with Manchester United where he lifted both the FA Cup and the League Cup. His defensive ability in one-on-one situations remains among the strongest in English football, while his maturity would add balance to Emery’s ambitious squad.

Competition for places has been a key theme of Villa’s recruitment strategy. Emery wants every position challenged by high-level players capable of stepping into the starting lineup without weakening the team. Adding Wan-Bissaka would fit perfectly with that philosophy while providing important cover during a season packed with domestic and European fixtures.

From West Ham’s perspective, selling the defender could also make financial sense. With Championship football reducing revenue and several rebuilding decisions still to be made, receiving a substantial transfer fee for an experienced player could help fund further additions before the window closes.

Whether Villa decide to press ahead remains to be seen, but the interest underlines their determination to continue strengthening after another impressive campaign. Emery has already demonstrated his ability to transform Villa into genuine contenders, and adding a proven Premier League defender like Wan-Bissaka would further reinforce those ambitions.

As talks continue behind the scenes, supporters from both clubs will be watching closely. If negotiations progress beyond the exploratory stage, Aaron Wan-Bissaka could become one of the most eye-catching Premier League transfers of the closing weeks of the summer window.