Aston Villa identify Harvey Barnes and James Trafford as top summer targets

Aston Villa are preparing to strengthen their squad ahead of their return to the Champions League.

The Villans finished fourth in the Premier League, booking their spot in Europe’s elite football competition.

Villa want to sign a new winger and a goalkeeper if Emiliano Martinez leaves.

Harvey Barnes and James Trafford are their priority targets for both positions, according to the Daily Mail.

Villa want to add pace to their attack and consider Barnes an ideal target.

Barnes enjoyed a brilliant individual campaign, bagging 16 goals and six assists across all competitions for Newcastle United.

He could be open to joining Villa due to Champions League football. A move would also allow him to live with his family, who remained in the Midlands.

However, Newcastle’s stance on the English winger remains unclear, given Anthony Gordon’s potential exit. Gordon has reportedly agreed terms with Bayern Munich.

Barnes has two years left on his deal, meaning this summer could represent Newcastle’s last chance to get a significant fee for him.

A move for Trafford is not yet certain, as Martinez’s departure is not guaranteed. The Argentine has three years left on his deal, and a potential suitor has not emerged.

Trafford wants to leave Manchester City in search of more game time. He helped the Cityzens win the FA Cup and Carabao Cup, but he is behind Gianluigi Donnarumma in the pecking order.

The English goalkeeper has several suitors, including Brighton & Hove Albion, who consider him a ‘dream target’. He is also on Newcastle’s radar.