By Sean Fisher

24th Nov, 2023 | 4:58pm

Sources: Aston Villa chiefs set sights on takeover deal

Aston Villa have begun the search for a new affiliate club within Europe in what would be a landmark new takeover deal, Football Insider has been told.

The Birmingham-based side announced in October that they had formed a collaborative partnership with Japanese side Vissel Kobe.

Villa and Vissel Kobe are set to exchange training data and techniques while helping to enhance the youth development of both clubs, including organised tours for their academy squads.

It is understood that Villa are now looking for another partner club in mainland Europe to strengthen and expand their international network.

Villa’s expansion into Europe could come in the form of a new multi-club organisation headed by owners NSWE, or another strategic partnership like seen with Vissel Kobe.

Multi-club models have grown more and more popular among Premier League owners in recent years, with Manchester City leading the way at the forefront of the City Football Group.

Chelsea owners BlueCo also expanded their portfolio this year by purchasing a majority stake in French side Strasbourg.

Following a vote this week, Premier League clubs will still be allowed to strike loan deals with players from clubs affiliated to their ownership.

As per The Times, Villa voted alongside 12 other top-flight clubs to ban any loan deals between related parties, but the ban required 14 votes to be passed.

However, the failed vote means Villa are now free to benefit from any transfer or loan deals from affiliated clubs.

Villa are currently enquiring with multiple clubs over the possibility of a deal.

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