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Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

Tue 31 March 2026 7:30, UK

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Aston Villa have emerged as the leading candidates in the race to sign Fulham star Harry Wilson in the summer transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.

The 29-year-old is considered unlikely to sign a new deal at Craven Cottage and will become a free agent when his contract expires at the end of June.

After what has been an outstanding season in the Premier League, the Wales international has attracted high-profile interest including from the likes of Everton and Leeds.

However, as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Aston Villa’s ability to offer Champions League football will make the difference.

Unai Emery’s side are currently fourth in the Premier League and remain in a strong position to qualify for Europe’s premier competition in a huge boost to Villa’s transfer plans.

Aston Villa lead race to sign Harry Wilson

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that at least five Premier League clubs want Wilson and are keeping a close eye on his situation.

Alongside Villa, Everton and Leeds, the likes of Crystal Palace, West Ham and Bournemouth are also keen to lure him away from Craven Cottage on a free transfer.

However, Emery’s side have a clear advantage over all of their rivals in the race and are confident they can beat them to Wilson’s signature should he become available.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “Harry Wilson looks like he will be leaving Fulham on a free transfer this summer.

“You’ve got a lot of interest from other Premier League clubs. I’m sure there will be European clubs looking at Harry Wilson as well, trying to lure him away on a free transfer.

“Aston Villa are one of the sides who are probably leading the hunt right now as well.

“Villa could have up their sleeve the potential opportunity of playing Champions League football.

“If they qualify for the Champions League, that might give them the edge over their rivals because nobody else will be able to offer him that in the Premier League.”

Evann Guessand exit could make way for Wilson deal

The addition of a new winger has become a priority for Emery amid ongoing concerns about their current options, while Evann Guessand was allowed to leave on loan.

The Ivory Coast international has already scored for his country during the international break, and has thrived under Oliver Glasner since joining Crystal Palace.

As a result, Brown told Football Insider that Guessand is keen to stay at Crystal Palace, where he feels more suited to the system and

The winger was the driving force behind his switch to Selhurst Park in January, having snubbed them in the summer, and he is now keen to stick around.

Should Villa receive the reported £28million from his option to buy, they will be able to reinvest in their squad, with Wilson being targeted as an immediate replacement.