Ewan Kingsbury

Thu 8 August 2024 10:36, UK

Aston Villa’s former chief Keith Wyness has claimed the Midlands giants are “close to the Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) red line” and could incur a points deduction.

Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the 66-year-old – who served as CEO at Villa Park between 2016 and 2018 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs –suggested further sales – this summer, in January or next summer – could be necessary.

Aston Villa have spent heavily after qualifying for the Champions League – dropping big fees on Amadou Onana and Ian Maatsen.

Meanwhile, they have also activated clauses to bring Jaden Philogene and Cameron Archer back to Villa Park for eight-figure fees.

Unai Emery’s side were in danger of incurring a points deduction by breaching PSR before selling Douglas Luiz to Juventus in June – days before handing in their accounts for the 2023-24 campaign.

Aston Villa set for more sales to make PSR situation work, says Wyness

But Wyness claimed further sales may be needed “to make it all work”.

He told Football Insider‘s Insider Track podcast: “It really baffles me.

“They’re really close to the PSR red line, and I’d love to know their secret to make it all work.

“Edens and Sawiris are very aware of where they are financially, but they’ve invested heavily.

“They’ve certainly shown the fans that they want to be competing in the Champions League – not just this season, but for the seasons to come.

“It’s a great club, I’ve been there – and I’ve got huge respect for the club.

“In my own calculations, they are close to that red line. I think there will have to be some more sales at some stage to make it all work.

“We’ll have to watch this closely – they’re right on the edge.”

In other news, Villa stance on striker signing revealed after Jhon Duran update.

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