Aston Villa have reportedly stepped up their pursuit of UD Almería midfielder Dion Lopy after submitting an opening offer for the Senegal international.
Unai Emery is expected to strengthen his squad following Aston Villa's qualification for next season's Champions League, and the Spanish market once again appears to be a key area of focus for the club's recruitment team.
According to reports from Spain, Villa have already made their first move for the highly-rated midfielder but may need to improve their proposal to secure a deal.
Aston Villa make opening offer
Villa are said to have submitted an initial bid worth €17 million for Lopy, who has become one of Almería's most important players since arriving from Stade Reims.
However, the offer reportedly falls short of the Spanish club's valuation.
Almería are understood to be seeking closer to €20m before considering a sale, leaving a relatively small gap between the two clubs.
Given the difference is only around €3m, there is growing belief that an agreement could be achievable if Villa decide to return with an improved proposal.
Emery sees midfielder as key target
The Aston Villa manager is believed to be a strong admirer of the 24-year-old.
Interestingly, reports in Spain claim Emery views Lopy as a modern version of Felipe Melo, a player he coached during his time at Almería between 2006 and 2008.
That comparison highlights the qualities Emery reportedly values in the midfielder: physicality, defensive awareness, intensity and the ability to control central areas.
The club have consistently targeted players capable of fitting specific tactical roles rather than simply pursuing high-profile names.
Lopy appears to fit that model perfectly.
Champions League football could prove decisive
One factor working heavily in Aston Villa's favour is the opportunity they can offer.
The prospect of Premier League football combined with Champions League participation represents a major step up from Spain's second division.
Reports suggest the player could be tempted by that opportunity, especially after Almería narrowly missed out on promotion this season.
For a midfielder entering what should be the prime years of his career, the chance to work under Emery and compete at the highest level may be difficult to ignore.
Almería face difficult decision
Despite their desire to keep Lopy, Almería may eventually find themselves in a difficult position.
The midfielder remains an important part of their plans as they attempt to return to La Liga next season.
However, a significant transfer fee would also provide valuable resources to strengthen the squad elsewhere.
That balancing act means Villa’s interest is being viewed as both a sporting threat and a financial opportunity.
| Dion Lopy Profile | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 24 |
| Club | UD Almería |
| Position | Defensive Midfielder |
| Contract Expiry | 2029 |
| Reported Aston Villa Bid | €17m |
| Almería Valuation | €20m |
Source: Spanish media reports, updated 31 May 2026
Key Points
- Aston Villa have submitted a €17m bid for Dion Lopy.
- Almería are reportedly holding out for €20m.
- Unai Emery is a strong admirer of the midfielder.
- Villa can offer Champions League football next season.
- Lopy remains under contract until 2029.
- The financial gap between the clubs is only €3m.
What's next?
Aston Villa must now decide whether to improve their offer and meet Almería's valuation. Given the relatively small difference between the two clubs, further negotiations are expected in the coming days.
For Lopy, the opportunity to join a Champions League club in the Premier League may prove difficult to resist. If Villa return with an improved proposal, the transfer could quickly gather momentum.
Would Dion Lopy be a smart addition for Aston Villa's Champions League squad, or should Emery target a more experienced midfielder?
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