Aston Villa’s transfer business during the winter window could be the difference between them securing Champions League football next season or missing out.
The likes of Andres Garcia, Axel Disasi and Donyell Malen made the move to the Midlands in January, but it was the loan signings of Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio which really turned heads.
The Englishman has provided four assists for the club since joining, yet the Spaniard has been even better…
Marco Asensio's Aston Villa career in numbers so far
A few years ago, Villa signing a player like Asensio would have been unheard of. Now, due to Unai Emery’s influence, these types of players are lining up to join the club.
He made just 16 appearances for Paris Saint-Germain before joining Villa on a six-month loan deal. It hasn’t taken him long to showcase his talents.
Across eight matches under Emery, the former Real Madrid sensation has already notched seven goals for the club.
The attacking midfielder has also averaged one key pass per game in the Premier League while succeeding with 75% of his dribble attempts. Having a game-changer like this at his disposal will only aid Emery in his quest to secure either a trophy or a spot in the Champions League next term.
Why not both? Well, if Asensio continues to play like he has done over the previous few weeks, anything is possible, no doubt about that.
Might Villa have their homegrown version of the PSG star, however? Someone who could step up to the player in the near future to prove his worth.
Aston Villa's homegrown Asensio
The Villans certainly have a rich history of bringing through young talents in recent years, notably seeing Jack Grealish depart for mega money. Jacob Ramsey is another to have showcased his skills having learnt his trade in the youth ranks of Bodymoor Heath.
So, who’s the next cab off the rank? Well, Louie Barry is certainly one to watch out. He’s already made his debut for Villa, scoring against Liverpool in their FA Cup defeat way back in January 2021.
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Since then, he has spent periods out on loan, most notably at Stockport County. From August 2023 to January 2025, Barry scored 25 goals and registered seven assists in just 46 matches for the club, taking his chance well.
A centre-forward by trade, the youngster can also play out wide, hence similarities to Asensio can be made.
Stockport County
46
25
MK Dons
32
1
Salford City
21
2
Swindon Town
15
6
Ipswich Town
6
0
Hull City
4
0
Aston Villa
1
1
He was recalled by Villa during the winter transfer window, before being sent out to Hull City, who are currently playing in the Championship, for yet another temporary move.
Former Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor dubbed the striker as “outstanding” following his decision to extend his contract at the club until 2026 four years ago and as a result, next season will be massive for the 21-year-old.
Asensio will return to Paris, while Rashford may or may not still be at the club. He needs to impress significantly during pre-season to prove to Emery that he deserves a chance in the first team.
If he does, there is no reason why Barry cannot go on to become a solid squad player for Villa next season, gaining vital experience along the way.
That said, they will have to remain patient with his development. The young attacker’s time with Hull had to be cut short last month due to a knee-cartilage injury and he’s now undergoing rehab back at Villa.
Here’s hoping he can make a positive impact under Emery next term…
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