News Focus
- Aston Villa want to sign Bologna winger Jonathan Rowe during the summer transfer window
- The 23-year-old forward scored eight goals and made five assists in 42 matches this term
- Villa must pay approximately €40 million to secure the England Under-21 international
- The player has a strained relationship with Bologna manager Vincenzo Italiano
- Rowe previously played for Norwich City and Olympique Marseille before moving to Italy
Aston Villa have set their sights on Bologna winger Jonathan Rowe following his impressive displays against them in the Europa League. The Birmingham club lifted the European trophy last night in Istanbul after beating SC Freiburg 3-0 in the final.
This victory means Villa will compete in the Champions League next term. The club is now ready to invest heavily to improve Unai Emery’s squad for the elite competition.
Rowe attracted attention from Villa’s scouts during the Europa League campaign. Bologna lost only three games in the entire tournament. All three defeats came against the eventual champions, Villa.
The 23-year-old England Under-21 star joined the Stadio Dall’Ara last August from Olympique Marseille. The Italian side paid €17 million plus add-ons for his services. The agreement included a 10 per cent sell-on clause for the French club.
Rowe’s exit from Marseille followed a dressing room clash with teammate Adrien Rabiot. Both players subsequently transferred to Serie A. Rabiot moved to AC Milan, while Rowe signed for Bologna.
The wide attacker began his career at Norwich City’s youth academy. He transferred to Marseille in 2024 before switching to Italy just months later.
This season, he has netted eight times and created five goals in 42 appearances across all competitions. However, he has experienced tension with coach Vincenzo Italiano. The player is frustrated with time spent on the bench. The coach, meanwhile, believes Rowe does not show the same intensity in training as he does during matches.
Villa will need to pay around €40 million to bring the former Norwich trainee to the Premier League.