Emery issues defiant message amid transfer interest in Aston Villa star

Cameron Smith

• 30 Jan 2024 08:43 GMT
• 3 min read

Unai Emery has hit back following rumours that Aston Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey could leave the club this month amid interest from several Premier League sides.

Ramsey, 22, came through the Villa academy and has now been a key member of the first-team squad for several seasons since his return from a loan spell at Doncaster Rovers in 2020.

His form over the past few years has attracted interest from Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur, while Bayern Munich are also eyeing a shock deal despite the presence of Jamal Musiala.

That is according to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, who has revealed that suitors believe Ramsey will be available for a fee of around €58 million (£50m) due to Villa’s need to comply with the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules (PSR).

However, Emery has stated that Ramsey is not for sale, despite the fact he is wanted by numerous top level clubs.

What has Unai Emery said about Jacob Ramsey?

“Jacob Ramsey is a very important player. He grew up in the academy and his progression is getting better,” the former Arsenal and PSG manager told reporters during a press conference ahead of Villa’s Premier League clash against Newcastle.

“His level is increasing a lot and I want to keep him here with us. Of course, there are movements (speculation) around him.

“Maybe there are teams involved in the possibility to sign him because he has a big, big potential at Villa and in England. I want to keep him here, 100 percent.”

Ramsey has only made 10 Premier League appearances (four starts) so far this season, due to injury, but the Englishman is still deemed to be a key player by Emery, despite competition from the likes of John McGinn and Youri Tielemans.

While Villa are hoping to hold onto Ramsey before the January window shuts, they are also looking to purchase Middlesbrough forward Morgan Rogers.

Emery’s side have reportedly seen a third bid of around €9m turned down by Boro, with the Championship outfit holding out for €14m.