Marseille eye Aston Villa winger Evann Guessand after Unai Emery opens exit door

Marseille are weighing up a move for Aston Villa attacker Evann Guessand after Unai Emery reportedly made the winger available for another loan spell this summer.

The Ligue 1 side are keen to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the new campaign, with Guessand emerging as a potential target following an underwhelming first season at Villa Park.

However, financial restrictions could complicate any deal.

According to Jeunes Footeux, Aston Villa are willing to sanction another temporary departure for Guessand as they look to help the Ivory Coast international rediscover his best form.

Villa signed the 25-year-old from OGC Nice for a reported €35 million in the summer of 2025, but he struggled to establish himself under Emery.

Guessand made 21 appearances in all competitions, scoring twice, with most of his minutes coming from the substitutes' bench in the Premier League.

He later joined Crystal Palace on loan in January, contributing two goals and one assist during his spell at Selhurst Park, although the Eagles ultimately chose not to make the move permanent.

Villa believe another successful loan could increase the forward's market value ahead of a potential permanent sale in 2027. Guessand remains under contract until 2030.

Marseille are attracted by Guessand's versatility, with the forward capable of playing on either wing as well as through the middle.

His previous experience in Ligue 1 is also viewed as a major advantage as the French club continues to search for attacking reinforcements.

However, completing a deal will not be straightforward.

Marseille are currently operating under financial constraints imposed by both the DNCG and UEFA, limiting their spending during the transfer window. The club are also expected to reduce the size of their squad before making further additions.

While Aston Villa are open to a loan agreement, negotiations could hinge on the player's wages.

The report claims Marseille would only be able to complete the transfer if Villa agree to cover a significant portion of Guessand's salary during the loan spell.

Without that financial contribution from the Premier League club, Marseille are unlikely to be able to finalise a deal.

For now, the French side remain interested, but any move will depend on whether both clubs can reach an agreement over the financial structure.

Marseille are expected to continue assessing the financial viability of a loan move, while Aston Villa decide how much of Guessand's salary they are willing to subsidise. Discussions could accelerate if the French club create room in their squad before the transfer window closes.