Aston Villa are reportedly among the clubs showing serious interest in Jonathan Rowe after the winger’s outstanding run of form for Bologna F.C. 1909 during the second half of the season.
The former Norwich City player delivered another major moment at the weekend when his spectacular overhead kick secured a dramatic stoppage-time victory against S.S.C. Napoli.
That goal has further intensified transfer attention from England, with Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport reporting that Aston Villa now view Rowe as a genuine summer target alongside interest from Chelsea.
Jonathan Rowe’s form has transformed Bologna’s stance
Rowe endured a difficult start after arriving in Italy last summer, struggling initially with fitness and adaptation issues. However, his performances since the start of 2026 have changed perceptions dramatically inside Bologna.
The winger has now scored three Serie A goals this calendar year while also producing four goals and two assists in the Europa League. One of those strikes came against Aston Villa, where Rowe’s curling finish reportedly caught the attention of scouts from Villa Park.
Gazzetta claim the player’s recent performances have earned him the nickname ‘Roweldinho’ among supporters in Bologna — a sign of how quickly his reputation has grown in recent months.
Having followed Bologna’s progress closely throughout their European campaign, Rowe’s improvement has been particularly noticeable in transition-heavy matches where his direct running and confidence in one-versus-one situations have become increasingly influential.
That development has naturally pushed Premier League clubs into action.
Aston Villa could benefit from Bologna’s transfer model
The Italian side reportedly fear losing Rowe if they fail to qualify for European football next season. Bologna currently sit eighth in Serie A, leaving uncertainty around their continental prospects heading into the summer.
That context may become crucial.
Bologna have developed a reputation for major Premier League sales in recent years, including deals involving Joshua Zirkzee, Riccardo Calafiori and Dan Ndoye. Reports in Italy also continue linking Jhon Lucumí with a move to England.
That sell-to-buy structure could work in Aston Villa’s favour if Unai Emery decides to pursue the winger aggressively.
| Stat (2025/26) | Jonathan Rowe |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 41 |
| Goals | 11 |
| Assists | 7 |
| Europa League goals | 4 |
source: sofascore match data – 13 May 2026
Chelsea are also being linked with a possible €38m offer, according to reports cited in Italy. However, Villa’s need for additional attacking depth ahead of another demanding season may strengthen their interest considerably.
What’s next?
Bologna are expected to wait until the end of the Serie A campaign before making any final decisions on Rowe’s future. Qualification for Europe could improve their chances of keeping the winger for at least one more season.
For Aston Villa, much may depend on outgoing transfers and Emery’s attacking priorities during the summer rebuild. However, Rowe’s profile — young, explosive and already adjusted to high-level European football — fits the type of signing Villa have increasingly targeted under the current project.
If formal bids arrive from England, Bologna may eventually face another difficult decision over one of their most valuable emerging assets.
Would Jonathan Rowe thrive immediately back in the Premier League, or would another year in Serie A benefit his development more?
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