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Evan Lloyd

Tue 14 April 2026 6:30, UK

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Lois Openda could be available for Aston Villa this summer as Juventus look to instantly wash their hands of a transfer disaster.

The striker is set to complete a £40million move to the Italian giants from RB Leipzig, after an obligation to buy was triggered in his loan deal.

The 26-year-old had attracted interest from Villa and much of Europe last season when he enjoyed another superb season for the German side, having scored 28 goals across all competitions in the 2023-24 campaign.

Juventus pulled the trigger, but Openda has struggled significantly in Serie A, scoring just twice in 33 games across all competitions.

Villa transfer chiefs may now spy an opportunity to rekindle their interest, with the Italian side reportedly looking for an option.

Lois Openda could be available for bargain price

Former scout Mick Brown exclusively told Football Insider last month that Ollie Watkins could leave Villa at the end of the season, following a disappointing campaign.

The striker has left much to be desired in front of goal, and his all-round game has not been up to the standards set in previous seasons.

Unai Emery has retained his faith in the 30-year-old, but decision-makers may be eyeing alternative options this summer.

Openda, while a significant risk given his struggles this season, may well be available for a bargain price.

It is easy to forget that just three years ago, the 26-year-old bagged 21 Ligue 1 goals and 24 in the Bundesliga the year after that.

Last season certainly saw a fall in his numbers, but the forward got more assists and was just as dangerous as ever.

Openda’s time at Juventus has been disastrous, but Emery’s fast-paced football may well be what is needed to spur him back into life.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Juventus will try to find an “exit solution” for the forward this summer, which could well mean a vastly reduced price.

Openda could even partner Ollie Watkins

Much of Openda’s best form came during his time playing in a two-man strike force with Benjamin Sesko at Manchester United.

The pair bounced off each other, with the pace of the Belgian and Sesko’s height creating a perfect partnership.

Openda has not had that at Juventus, but he could at Villa. Despite the talk around Watkins’ departure, the England international could even pair up with a new arrival.

The same can be said of Tammy Abraham, who would be a partner more in the mould of Sesko.

It remains to be seen whether the Villans will be willing to take such a risk, but there is certainly potential for huge upside.