Villa close to signing Germany midfielder Goretzka

Aston Villa is reportedly close to signing Germany midfielder Leon Goretzka on a free transfer. The 31-year-old is available after leaving Bayern Munich in the summer and has had positive discussions with Aston Villa. Manager Unai Emery is seeking to improve his midfield options, especially with Amadou Onana injured until next year.

Villa previously pursued Goretzka's former Bayern teammate Joao Palhinha, but he is likely to join Benfica. Goretzka made 312 appearances and scored 51 goals for Bayern in his eight-year stint, also netting 73 caps for Germany and representing them at this summer's World Cup. He secured seven league titles and the 2020 Champions League with Bayern.

Goretzka's addition could provide valuable experience to Villa, who have lost several stars this summer, including Ezri Konsa to Arsenal, Morgan Rogers to Chelsea, Youri Tielemans to Manchester United, and Lucas Digne to Paris St-Germain. Emery also admitted that Ollie Watkins might leave the club beyond the transfer deadline due to interest from Al-Hilal in Saudi.

Emery stated, "We have an issue with him, it's clear. He is our player. We have had offers for him. I don't want to sell him, but it can change if it's a good option for him and the club and I can replace him in the squad." Aston Villa faces Brighton in their opening Premier League match on Sunday.