Aston Villa’s Alejandro Garnacho loan fee revealed

Aston Villa's proposed loan move for Chelsea winger Alejandro Garnacho has been described as a "no-brainer", with fresh details emerging over what the deal could cost Unai Emery's side.

Former Manchester City financial adviser Stefan Borson believes Villa are likely to pay a loan fee of around £5 million, while also covering the Argentine's wages for the duration of the agreement.

Garnacho is expected to leave Chelsea after just one season at Stamford Bridge, having fallen down the pecking order despite making 43 appearances in all competitions.

The 22-year-old scored eight goals and registered four assists during his debut campaign, but is now searching for regular first-team football.

Before joining Chelsea, Garnacho's Manchester United career ended in controversial fashion after a reported disagreement with then-manager Ruben Amorim.

A move to Villa Park could now offer the Argentina international the opportunity to rebuild his reputation under Emery.

Speaking to Football Insider, Borson explained why the proposed structure represents minimal financial risk for Aston Villa.

"I think the surprise will be if it happens. At the moment it's not happened; it's a loan. Villa have done lots of these deals," he said.

"They will only buy him if they think they're getting good value at the pre-agreed price. I would describe it as a one-way option for Aston Villa.

"They pay a relatively small option price, around £5 million. I think that's probably what they'll have to pay. They'll pay his wages in whole or in part."

Borson believes Villa are most likely to cover Garnacho's full salary while using the season to assess whether a permanent transfer represents good value.

The proposed agreement is expected to include a pre-agreed purchase option rather than an obligation to buy.

That would allow Villa to evaluate Garnacho's performances before deciding whether to complete a permanent move.

"If he gets injured, they don't need to sign him, or if he doesn't play or he plays poorly, or he's a bad influence. It's a bit of a no-brainer really, given that he's a player that they genuinely rated a year ago," Borson added.

If the deal is completed, Garnacho is expected to become another attacking option for Emery alongside Ollie Watkins, Emi Buendía and John McGinn.

Villa are also preparing for the return of Boubacar Kamara from injury, while Johan Manzambi and João Gomes are among the midfield options expected to feature during the new campaign.

The club continue to reshape their squad ahead of the 2026-27 season, with Garnacho viewed as a low-risk addition thanks to the structure of the proposed loan.

Aston Villa and Chelsea are expected to continue discussions over the final details of Garnacho's loan move. If an agreement is reached, Villa will have the opportunity to assess the winger throughout the 2026-27 campaign before deciding whether to activate a permanent transfer option.