Aston Villa fans will love what Robin van Persie said about ‘amazing’ potential signing

Aston Villa are still active in the transfer window and are eyeing a potential deal for Igor Paixao from Marseille.

Reports have emerged that the Birmingham outfit have asked about the availability of the 26-year-old winger, just a year after he moved to the Ligue 1 club.

The former Brazil Under-23 international had a solid first season at Marseille, where he picked up 19 goal contributions in 42 matches in all competitions.

Previously, Paixao was a huge hit at Feyenoord, where he won three major trophies, including the Eredivisie title.

His form won him praise from former Feyenoord manager Robin van Persie, who was quick to highlight the importance of the winger to his team.

Unai Emery and Villa have been on the hunt for a new winger this summer after Morgan Rogers departed for Chelsea, and now Paixao could be their solution.

Robin van Persie: Igor Paixao is in a league of his own

If L’Equipe’s report is correct, Villa may face a battle to win Paixao’s signature.

Leeds United are also in the race for the Brazilian as Marseille look to downsize their squad this summer.

Villa will be hoping to win the race for Paixao over the remaining weeks of the transfer window, with the winger’s success at Feyenoord no doubt playing a part in their interest.

Van Persie was a massive fan of the attacker when he was at the Dutch club, and heavily praised his ability shortly before his move to Marseille.

He told Feyenoord Pings on 3 April 2025: “Igor is amazing. In a class of his own. 

“Apart from the fact that he does a great job every game, he is also a joy to work with. He always enjoys himself, radiates it every day, is super coachable, and is very open to learning. He is very important to us."

Who else are Aston Villa looking to sign this summer?

Aston Villa have been linked with a move to Everton’s James Garner this summer.

The midfielder had an impressive 2025-26 campaign at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, which saw him earn his first caps for England’s senior team.

However, former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness exclusively told Football Insider that Villa are likely to be priced out of a move for Garner.

He believes that the Toffees are in a very strong position financially to hold onto the 25-year-old and could make it extremely difficult for Emery’s side to complete a deal.

Garner only signed a new long-term contract at Everton in January, which no doubt puts the club in a solid position.

Nevertheless, it remains to be seen what business Aston Villa will complete in the remaining weeks of the transfer window.