Aston Villa retain interest in Manchester City's Omar Marmoush
Aston Villa are preparing to renew their pursuit of Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush in the upcoming summer transfer window, according to reports. The Times indicates that Unai Emery's side, having failed with a January approach, believe the promise of regular football could lure the Egyptian international to Villa Park as they build a squad for Champions League football next season.
Villa's secured top-flight status and are currently well-placed for a top-five finish, which would bring the financial muscle and prestige to attract players from elite clubs. Emery was keen on Marmoush during the winter window before ultimately signing Tammy Abraham, but the club's interest has persisted. The report suggests Villa could offer the 27-year-old the regular playing time he has found limited at the Etihad Stadium.
Marmoush joined Manchester City from Eintracht Frankfurt in a deal worth £59m in January 2025 and made an immediate impact, scoring seven goals in 16 appearances during the second half of last season. This term, however, he has struggled for consistent minutes under Pep Guardiola, starting only seven Premier League games and contributing one goal and three assists in 17 total outings. Guardiola has previously labelled Marmoush a "special player," but his recent absence from the matchday squad for City's last three games has fueled speculation about his future.
A key factor in Villa's interest is Marmoush's versatility, a quality highly valued by Emery. The player is capable of leading the line as a central striker, operating from the left wing, or playing in a number ten role. This tactical flexibility would be a significant asset for a Villa squad navigating the increased demands of a Champions League campaign alongside domestic commitments.
The potential move also comes amid expected changes to Villa's attacking options. Loanee Jadon Sancho is set to return to his parent club, while the long-term future of Leon Bailey remains uncertain. Villa are also braced for interest in key assets Morgan Rogers and Ollie Watkins, though the club's intention is to retain them. For Manchester City, a sale at a fee slightly below the £59m they paid just over a year ago is considered a possibility if they decide to cash in on a squad player.
It is understood that Marmoush is not actively agitating for a departure from the Premier League champions. However, entering the prime years of his career, the prospect of a leading role at an ambitious, Champions League-bound club like Aston Villa is thought to be a tempting proposition. Any deal would represent a significant statement of intent from Villa as they look to consolidate their position among England's elite.
