Exclusive: Portsmouth in hot pursuit of deal to sign Aston Villa sensation
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(Credit: Imago) Portsmouth in hot pursuit of deal to sign Aston Villa sensation Tommi O’Reilly Tue 28 April 2026 9:38, UK Portsmouth and Oxford United are battling it out to sign Aston Villa sensation Tommi O’Reilly, who is on loan at Crewe Alexandra, sources have told Football Insider.The 22-year-old, who can play out wide or as a number ten, has started every league game for Crewe this season and has amassed over 20 goal contributions.His reliability and quality has been recognised after he was handed the club’s Player of the Season award by his teammates at Crewe.The majority of clubs in League One are keen to land a deal, however they will now face competition from Championship clubs who have been impressed this season.O’Rilley’s current contract at Villa Park is set to run until 2028, putting them in a strong position over his future, with Aston Villa to decide his next steps. 🔄 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 Why are clubs racing to sign Tommi O’Reilly?Football Insider exclusively revealed last month that O’Reilly could leave Aston Villa this summer with a host of Championship clubs joining the race.Portsmouth and Oxford United are among those showing the most interest as things stand, and could look to explore a move when the window opens.Tommi O’ReillyLeague Two StatsAppearances45Starts45Minutes Played3620Goals7Assists12Tommi O’Reilly’s stats for Crewe Alexandra in 2025-26.
(via Transfermarkt)Aston Villa are keen for him to continue his development in the EFL, having been a part of their academy since he was just seven years old.Portsmouth have put themselves in a strong position to beat rivals to his signature by avoiding relegation from the Championship with a remarkable run of form.Oxford, meanwhile, failed to stay up despite a 4-1 win last time out and will be playing League One football next season, putting them at a disadvantage in the race.Which other players could leave Aston Villa?O’Reilly is not the only Aston Villa player being linked with a move to a Championship club this summer, with speculation surrounding a number of star names.Football Insider revealed last month that Ross Barkley is a target for Sheffield United, although he is unlikely to make the switch as things stand.Credit: ImagoThe Blades’ interest came amid suggestions he could leave Villa Park on a free transfer, but it has since been confirmed that his deal will run until 2027.As a result, Sheffield United and other Championship clubs will struggle to agree terms, while his wages are believed to be well out of their budget.Unai Emery is also keen to keep Barkley around thanks to his experience and still views him as a key part of his squad ahead of a busy summer. 🦁 ASTON VILLA INSIDER UPDATE 🦁 Get the inside track on the Villa Park dugout, transfer strategy, player wages, and technical leadership at Bodymoor Heath. Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from Villa Park.