Aston Villa pushing to complete deal for Brazil international

Villa are pushing to make Emerson Royal their first signing of the summer.

Talks remain ongoing with Flamengo with Villa hoping to strike a deal for the Brazil international for under £10million.

Royal is wanted to provide cover and competition for first-choice right-back Matty Cash.

The 27-year-old joined Flamengo from AC Milan last summer, having previously spent three years at Tottenham between 2021 and 2024, making more than 100 appearances.

Recruiting a right-back is one of Villa’s top transfer priorities with Andres Garcia expected to leave either permanently or on loan.

The deal for Royal, who already has experience in the Premier League and Champions League, is seen as good value with the club again facing a balancing act due to financial restrictions.

Emery also wants to sign a striker and two attacking wide players. Newcastle’s Harvey Barnes and West Ham’s Jarrod Bowen are both of interest, along with Paris Saint-Germain teenager Ibrahim Mbaye.

Just how much Villa have to spend will be determined by outgoings and what happens with Morgan Rogers will largely define their summer.

The England international is a top target for Arsenal, though the Premier League champions are yet to cement their interest with a formal approach.

Defender Victor Lindelof has, meanwhile, played down any injury fears after being forced off during Sweden’s 1-1 draw with Japan at the World Cup.

Lindelof, who was captaining his country, was substituted in the 87th minute but later revealed he had only been suffering severe cramp in both calves.

Sweden’s draw ensured their progress through to the last-32.