(Credit: Imago, Manh Tung, Breaking Media)

Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

Fri 29 May 2026 10:49, UK

Follow us on Google Discover

Aston Villa are in talks with midfielder Lamare Bogarde over a new contract to keep him at the club, sources have told Football Insider.

The Villans are keen to reward the Dutchman with a new deal as a reward for his progress, after he appeared 28 times for them in the Premier League in 2025-26.

The second city outfit are also keen to ward off potential suitors for the 22-year-old, who is building a growing reputation for himself with his performances at Villa Park.

Unai Emery wants a deep squad at his disposal as the club prepare to return to the Champions League next term, and Bogarde looks set to potentially stay put.

Aston Villa’s transfer plans are set to see them strengthen their hand across the board, but there is also a strong priority for them to keep hold of their current stars.

Aston Villa eye move to fend off Brighton advances

Football Insider revealed back in December that Brighton had their eyes on Bogarde ahead of the recent January transfer window, although a move for him ultimately never came to fruition.

The Seagulls have identified the youngster as a clear long-term target, and feel that he has the potential to develop into a big player at first-team level in the Premier League.

Fabian Hurzeler’s side may have been lining up a move to make advancements towards Bogarde this summer, and that is exactly what Emery and Co. are keen to protect against with their latest contract talks.

Bogarde has progressed through the youth ranks at Villa Park to become a valued member of the senior group, and he played a significant role in their Europa League campaign this term.

The holding midfielder started eight games on the way to Villa winning the competition in Istanbul, although he ended the campaign as an unused substitute in the final against Freiburg.

Bogarde will have his eyes on securing an even greater involvement next term, as he continues to work towards becoming a key player for Emery.

Villa ‘hopeful’ of winning race for new midfielder

Football Insider revealed earlier this week that Aston Villa are “hopeful” of being able to win the race to sign Galatasaray midfielder Gabriel Sara this summer.

The second city outfit are currently one of the leading candidates to land the 26-year-old, who has consistently been linked with a move to the Premier League in recent years.

Interest in the former Norwich City man is already building ahead of the window, and as a result, Galatasaray are already “bracing” themselves for offers to come in for their star man.

Sara notched five goals and four assists for the Turkish giants in all competitions this term, and he could be about to bring his talents to Villa Park for 2026-27.