Aston Villa could yet enter the market for a striker this January, with the future of Donyell Malen emerging as a key factor in any potential move for former favourite Tammy Abraham.
Villa’s attacking plans remain fluid, but it is understood Abraham would be open to a return to Villa Park and to working under Unai Emery, should the conditions align. However, any move is likely to hinge on whether Malen remains at the club beyond the current transfer window.
Abraham keen, but no push for exit
Abraham is currently on loan at Besiktas, where the Istanbul side have already triggered an obligation to buy the 28-year-old. While that clause places control firmly with Besiktas, an agreement between the Turkish club and Villa is not believed to be a major stumbling block should negotiations advance.
According to The Athletic, Abraham retains a strong emotional connection to Villa following his prolific loan spell during the 2018/19 season. Emery is understood to be a long-time admirer of the striker, and Abraham is said to have an “appetite” for the move — though he will not agitate or force an exit.
Salary and competition complicate deal
One of the main challenges for Villa would be Abraham’s wages. Recent reports from July 2025 suggest his salary at Besiktas sits between €115,000 and €135,000 per week (£98k–£115k), a figure that could stretch Villa’s current wage structure despite the transfer fee itself being viewed as manageable.
There is also expected to be competition for Abraham’s signature. Several Premier League clubs, primarily from the lower half of the table, are monitoring his situation, which could influence both negotiations and salary expectations.
Malen situation central to Villa’s thinking
Villa’s pursuit of another forward is closely tied to Malen’s future. The Netherlands international arrived only 12 months ago from Borussia Dortmund and has quickly become a popular figure among supporters. However, he has found regular starts harder to come by, largely due to the form of Ollie Watkins.
Interest in Malen has already surfaced, with AS Roma among the sides credited with tracking his situation. No final decision has been made by either the player or the club. Villa’s stance will depend on the level of any offer received and Emery’s assessment of squad balance.
Abraham’s form in Turkey strengthens case
On the pitch, Abraham has continued to deliver. His output in Turkey underlines why Villa remain attentive to his situation.
| Stat (2025/26) | Tammy Abraham |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 24 |
| Goals | 12 |
| Assists | 3 |
source: Transfermarkt data – 13 January 2026
Those numbers reflect a striker operating with confidence, physical presence and consistency — qualities Emery values, particularly in high-pressure fixtures.
Key insights
- Tammy Abraham is open to a return to Aston Villa
- Unai Emery is a known admirer of the striker
- Any deal depends heavily on Donyell Malen’s future
- Abraham’s wages could be a key obstacle
- Premier League rivals are monitoring the situation
What’s next for Villa?
For now, Villa are in a holding pattern. Malen’s future is expected to be clarified later in the window, which will dictate whether Villa actively pursue a striker. If Malen stays, Abraham’s return becomes far less likely. If he departs, Villa already have a shortlist — with Abraham firmly among the leading options.
Should Aston Villa prioritise a proven favourite like Tammy Abraham — or keep faith with Donyell Malen and Ollie Watkins as their attacking core?
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