Aston Villa have transformed themselves from a mid-table Premier League club to a regular European football club in the last few years. The club will compete in the Europa League in the 2025/26 season. This is the result of the plans of their manager, Unai Emery and the discipline of the players. At Villa Park, there is now talk not just of domestic stability, but also of continental competition.
The team’s identity has changed over the last two seasons. Ollie Watkins has inspired confidence in front of goal, while John McGinn has kept the midfield balanced. However, Unai Emery knows that increasing bench strength and creativity is essential if Villa are to go deep in Europe. Youngsters like Jacob Ramsey and Morgan Rogers are eye-catching, but the uncertainty of their presence is forcing Villa to look for new options.
VIENNA, AUSTRIA – JUNE 7: Romano Schmid of Austria passes the ball during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifier between Austria and Romania at Ernst-Happel-Stadion on June 7, 2025 in Vienna, Austria. (Photo by Christian Hofer/Getty Images)
According to Jacob Steinberg‘s report, Aston Villa are interested in Werder Bremen midfielder Romano Schmid in this summer transfer window. Fulham and West Ham United are also keeping an eye on the Austrian international. Schmid made 35 appearances across all competitions in 2024/25, scoring five goals and providing six assists. Werder Bremen have set his price at €15 million.
Schmid is a technically sharp player, a good passer of the ball and confident in the box. He is a player who can set the tempo of the game from midfield and score goals when needed. Unai Emery needs a flexible and hardworking playmaker like him in his system.
Villa’s current squad need a stable and creative midfielder, given Emiliano BuendÃa’s injuries and Jacob Ramsey’s uncertain future. Schmid’s age and recent form make this transfer even more attractive. He could not only fit into the rotation, but also play a key role in a long tournament like the Europa League.
Villa will need to make a move quickly and precisely to beat West Ham and Fulham. They will need to convince Schmid and his agent that Villa is a sustainable and ambitious project. A straightforward and strong offer, along with the sure promise of European football, could outweigh any offer from other clubs. If Villa can complete this transfer, it won’t be just another signing, but a strong gesture towards success in the Europa League.