Liverpool defender Joe Gomez is reportedly nearing a move to Aston Villa as this summer’s transfer window enters its final stages. At 27 years old, the versatile center-back seems increasingly open to the idea of leaving Merseyside, driven by a desire for more regular playing time—a prospect that appears less likely at Liverpool under the current circumstances. His omission from the squad for Liverpool’s opening Premier League fixture against Ipswich Town, a decision made by manager Arne Slot, has only intensified speculation about his potential departure.
Reports from Football Insider and other sources indicate that Gomez is seriously considering a switch to Aston Villa. The move is seen as a strategic one, as the defender believes he would have a better chance of securing a consistent starting role for the upcoming 2024/25 season at Villa Park. The interest from Aston Villa is spearheaded by their manager, Unai Emery, who has identified Gomez as a key target due to his ability to perform in multiple positions across the backline. Emery’s desire to bolster his defensive options aligns well with Gomez’s aspirations for regular first-team football.
However, the deal’s finalization hinges on several factors, including the potential sale of Villa’s current defender Diego Carlos, who is reportedly a target for Fulham. This potential transfer could free up the necessary funds and space in the squad for Gomez’s arrival. Aston Villa has already made initial inquiries about Gomez’s availability, and it is understood that Liverpool would be willing to negotiate if their valuation, reportedly set between £40 million to £45 million, is met. While Aston Villa appears to be leading the race for Gomez’s signature, there remains a possibility that other clubs could enter the fray in the coming days. Nevertheless, Villa’s pursuit of the defender is the most advanced, positioning them strongly to secure the deal.
For Joe Gomez, a move to Aston Villa could represent a pivotal step in his career. Despite being a key player for Liverpool over the past few seasons, making 51 appearances last term alone, Gomez’s role has often been one of covering for injuries and filling in across various defensive positions. His adaptability—capable of playing as a central defender, right-back, or even left-back—along with his exceptional recovery speed, has made him an invaluable asset for Liverpool, especially during periods of defensive crisis. However, with the competition for places in Liverpool’s defense intensifying, Gomez’s prospects of regular playing time seem increasingly limited.
At Aston Villa, Gomez could find the ideal environment to revive and further his career. The club, under Unai Emery’s guidance, is on an upward trajectory, with ambitions of securing European football and possibly challenging for a Champions League spot. For Gomez, the opportunity to work under a tactically astute manager like Emery, combined with the likelihood of a regular starting position, could offer the stability and progression he seeks. Additionally, the prospect of playing a central role in a team with strong ambitions for the upcoming season is undoubtedly appealing.
As the transfer window draws to a close, the coming days will be crucial in determining Gomez’s future. Should he make the move to Aston Villa, it could mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his career. The transfer would not only provide Gomez with the regular playing time he desires but also position him as a key figure in a team looking to make significant strides both domestically and in Europe. For now, all eyes remain on the ongoing negotiations, with the possibility of Joe Gomez donning the claret and blue of Aston Villa becoming increasingly real.