The bold £29.5m defender signing who could take Aston Villa to the next level – and upset Tottenham
Aston Villa Eye Juventus Star Federico Gatti in Potential Blow to Tottenham
Unai Emery may be set to approve a significant defensive signing this summer, with Aston Villa showing strong interest in Juventus centre-back Federico Gatti — a move that could disrupt Tottenham’s transfer plans.
According to Caught Offside, Gatti is being closely monitored by Villa as they look to strengthen their defensive ranks.
The 26-year-old is reportedly open to leaving Juventus in search of more consistent playing time and a guaranteed starting role — something Emery could be willing to offer as he reshapes his squad ahead of a busy 2025/26 season.
Villa aren’t alone in the race, though. Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are believed to be frontrunners for Gatti’s signature, while West Ham, Nottingham Forest, and Villa continue to track the situation carefully.
Despite having three years remaining on his Juventus contract, the Italian club could be persuaded to sell for a fee in the region of €35 million (£29.5 million).
Villa have already asked to be kept informed about any developments, suggesting they’re seriously considering a formal approach.
Where Would Gatti Fit at Villa?
Since joining Juventus from Frosinone for around £8 million in 2022, Gatti has made 105 appearances and become a regular starter, particularly in the last two seasons.
At 6ft 3in and right-footed, he would likely slot in as a right-sided centre-back in Emery’s setup.
Emery often prefers a physically dominant player on the right of his central defence and a more technically skilled defender on the left.
This has been seen in his pairing of Tyrone Mings or Pau Torres with Ezri Konsa, who, despite being stronger on his right foot, has shown versatility on the left when needed.
Should Gatti arrive, he would face stiff competition for a starting place — but it’s unlikely he’d make the move without some guarantee of regular minutes.
A potential pairing with Torres or Mings could give Villa an even more formidable defensive core, especially with the club competing on multiple fronts next season.
While not necessarily a blockbuster name, Gatti brings experience, consistency, and international pedigree as a six-time Italy cap.
Villa struggled with defensive depth last season, and signing a player of Gatti’s calibre could provide the quality and reinforcement they need to push even higher in the Premier League.
Villa’s Summer Transfer Plans
Alongside their interest in Gatti, Birmingham World reports that Aston Villa are actively pursuing a new winger, a central midfielder, a right-back, and a goalkeeper. A new striker is also on Emery’s radar, although the upcoming arrival of Feyenoord prospect Zepiqueno Redmond may reduce the urgency of that pursuit.
With European football secured and Emery intent on building a deeper, more competitive squad, Villa’s summer business could be just getting started.
