Exclusive: Aston Villa add Borussia Dortmund star to summer shortlist as Unai Emery's plan emerges

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(Credit: Imago) Exclusive: Aston Villa add Julian Brandt to shortlist as Unai Emery transfer plan emerges Wed 11 March 2026 19:05, UK Aston Villa have added Borussia Dortmund midfielder Julian Brandt to their summer transfer shortlist, sources have told Football Insider.The 29-year-old is set to leave the Bundesliga giants as a free agent at the end of the season after recent discussions with their hierarchy, and the Villans are now eyeing up a move for him. Villa’s PSR situation is expected to see their spending constrained once again ahead of next term, and sources say that Unai Emery plans to explore the free agent market as a result.

Aston Villa are planning a cost-effective window, and Brandt is understood to be among a number of players who are being viewed as potential options to strengthen their group. 🔄 Aston Villa Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on signings, departures, and contract news from the Aston Villa boardroom. VISIT THE VILLA TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Aston Villa to face strong competition for Julian BrandtFootball Insider revealed on Wednesday that Brandt is also a target for Everton this summer, after the Toffees were previously linked with a mvoe for him earlier in the season.

Brandt’s imminent free agent status is set to provide plenty of competition for Villa when it comes to securing his signature, and it is expected that he will also have several offers from a range of European clubs. The interest in Brandt is just one example of their desire to try and exploit the free agent market, and that could become a common feature of their summer business. 🦁 ASTON VILLA INSIDER UPDATE 🦁 Get the inside track on the Villa Park dugout, transfer strategy, player wages, and technical leadership at Bodymoor Heath.