Watkins, Asensio, Rogers, Malen: O’Rourke updates on mass Aston Villa exodus
Aston Villa are prepared to see a number of key players leave the club as part of a mass exodus, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that Ollie Watkins, Marco Asensio and Morgan Rogers’ futures are all uncertain heading into the transfer window.
Villa’s decisions in the transfer market will likely be influenced on whether they qualify for the Champions League and the financial impact of that on the club.
This comes after Football Insider revealed Aston Villa could sell big-name players as part of a major overhaul of Unai Emery’s squad this summer.
Watkins has recently expressed frustrations about his decrease in playing time since the arrival of Marcus Rashford, while Asensio’s form has dropped since his initial displays.
Meanwhile, Football Insider revealed on 9 April that Villa are confident of keeping Rogers despite interest from Chelsea, Liverpool and Man City.
Aston Villa could push Ollie Watkins and Marco Asensio exits
Just as Villa plan to keep Rogers on the books, they have also been impressed with Donyell Malen’s performances and do not want to sell despite speculation.
The biggest uncertainty heading towards the summer is the future of Watkins, who has been such a key player under Emery, but has seen his minutes reduced in recent weeks.
Football Insider revealed that Villa could accept £50-60million offers for Watkins as Liverpool continue to keep tabs on his situation.
That would allow them to strengthen in the transfer market with a permanent move for Rashford, who arrived on loan from Man United in the mid-season window.
On top of that, Football Insider revealed Villa could let Asensio leave as the club are not convinced about the costs of signing him permanently.
Leon Bailey update emerges amid Saudi Pro League interest
Amid growing uncertainty surrounding a number of first-team players, one who looks certain to be heading away from Villa Park is Leon Bailey.
Football Insider revealed on 3 May that Aston Villa will “definitely” let Bailey go amid interest from Saudi Pro League sides as they aim to raise funds.
The winger has struggled for game time under Emery and has suffered with injury issues over the course of the season, raising concerns about his long-term future.
Meanwhile, former Villa scout Mick Brown told Football Insider in February that Villa plan to accept offers for Bailey in the summer transfer window.
For more Aston Villa and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.