Aston Villa Open Talks for Gabriel Sara at €30‑35m

Aston Villa are set to begin formal negotiations with Galatasaray for Brazilian midfielder Gabriel Sara, with a reported asking price between €30m and €35m. Sara recorded 11 goal contributions in 42 Süper Lig matches this season, his non‑penalty expected goals ranking in the top 81st percentile and his creative output placing him in the top 6% of midfielders. The 26‑year‑old spent two seasons in the EFL Championship with Norwich City before moving to Galatasaray in 2024, giving him familiarity with English football. Aston Villa, Everton, Tottenham and Napoli are also tracking Sara; Unai Emery appears to have an edge as Sara has responded positively to Villa’s interest and the prospect of immediate Champions League football. Galatasaray intend to use Sara’s sale to fund the purchase of Juventus midfielder Khéphren Thuram, whose fee is reported around €50m, and have set an asking price of €30‑35m for Sara. Sara’s contract runs until June 2029, giving him leverage, while Villa’s profit and sustainability rules mean any €30m outlay will be closely scrutinised; Galatasaray has indicated a limited window to complete the deal. Villa ended the season fourth in the Premier League and secured a Europa League triumph, prompting Emery to seek reinforcements ahead of the Champions League campaign. Gabriel Sara addressed media ahead of the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 second‑leg match between Liverpool and Galatasaray on 17 March 2026; the accompanying photo was taken by Jan Kruger.