Aston Villa enjoyed an excellent 2025-26 campaign, as they clinched the Europa League title and finished fourth in the Premier League.
Nobody expected their incredible success at the start of the season when they were winless in their opening five league matches.
However, manager Unai Emery inspired his team to a brilliant comeback and they went on to secure Champions League qualification and also sealed a European trophy.
With Villa set to compete on multiple fronts next season, the club’s hierarchy are looking to add reinforcements in the summer transfer window.
According to a report from Sky Sports, Villa have set their sights on Belgium forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo.
Unai Emery’s side have made initial contact with the player’s representatives.
The 21-year-old is currently in the United States as part of Belgium’s World Cup squad.
He was introduced off the bench against Egypt when the Red Devils were pushing for a winner after Mohamed Hany’s own goal levelled the scores at 1-1.
Villa have reportedly sent scouts to watch Fernandez-Pardo play at the World Cup.
They are waiting to see how he performs against top teams before deciding whether to make a concrete move.
The young forward enjoyed a superb individual campaign in France, scoring eight goals and providing seven assists in 41 appearances across all competitions.
His attacking contributions were instrumental in helping Lille secure a top-four finish in Ligue 1.
Fernandez-Pardo is highly rated for his versatility, as he mainly plays as a centre-forward and is also comfortable operating on either wing.
The 21-year-old is also praised for his dribbling skills, physical presence and intelligent movement in the final third.
Stats from Transfermarkt
