Aston Villa are reportedly among the clubs monitoring a potential move for Tarik Muharemovic ahead of the summer window.

Villa is edging closer to a return to the UEFA Champions League, and bolstering the squad looks increasingly necessary. With two centre-backs moving beyond their peak years, Unai Emery may look to bring in a younger, proven option capable of adapting to the Premier League. Muharemovic has emerged as one of the names linked.

The 23-year-old is currently with US Sassuolo, enjoying his first full season in Serie A after progressing through the Juventus Next Gen setup. According to Football Italia, he has contributed two goals and two assists this season, with a reported valuation of around £34.56 million. 

Sassuolo are understood to be aware of growing Premier League interest. Alongside Villa, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United have also been linked. Having signed the defender for €5 million in the summer of 2024, the Italian side would stand to make a significant profit. Unless the player chooses to sign for Juventus, Sassuolo would only receive half of the asking price as it has been agreed in his contract. 

Aston Villa long-term investment

For Villa, the appeal is clear. The prospect of Champions League football could offer an advantage, particularly when compared to uncertainty elsewhere. Reports from CaughtOffside suggest Muharemovic is viewed as a potential long-term option in central defence, with Tyrone Mings now into his thirties and no longer assured of a starting role.

The addition would not only provide cover but also increase competition across a demanding schedule that could include European fixtures.

However, interest from Manchester United or his recent potential suitor, Barcelona, may complicate matters. The defender is said to have been monitored in recent months, including during and before the international break, where he featured for Bosnia and Herzegovina national team.

Muharemovic’s style of play

Muharemovic’s appeal extends beyond his defensive work. Capable of operating as a left-sided centre-back or at full-back, he offers flexibility within a back line.

He has shown an ability to contribute n advanced areas, combining aerial strength with a willingness to step forward in possession. His expected goals (xG) return of 1.26 underlines a level of threat from set pieces, while his passing range—particularly longer distribution—adds another dimension to his game.

Performances this season, including a goal and assist in a 3-1 win over ACF Fiorentina and a goal in a 1-1 draw against Bologna FC, point to a player comfortably influencing matches at both ends of the pitch. The defender with 12 international caps is definitely a great addition for Villa, especially when they manage to qualify to the Champions League.

Whether that translates into a move this summer remains to be seen, but the level of reported interest suggests Villa are not the only club taking notice. Unai Emery’s men need to take up an immediate action to hold talks with his club, ideally before the World Cup kicks off as his price tag might goes up if he thrives in the summer competition. 

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