Aston Villa news: Emery nears new deal amid Man Utd links

Aston Villa are close to agreeing a new Unai Emery contract that would extend his stay beyond 2029, amid links with Manchester United.

The 55-year-old is also set for greater responsibility over Villa’s long-term development, with negotiations continuing over the length and financial terms of the deal.

Villa have already declared their commitment to building around Emery after talks with chairman Nassef Sawiris. The update comes before the head coach takes his side to Old Trafford on Sunday 8 November.

Aston Villa confirm Unai Emery commitment beyond 2029

Emery met Sawiris, president of football operations Roberto Olabe and director of football operations Damián Vidagany on Wednesday 4 November.

In their statement on Emery’s future, Villa said the discussions established a “clear commitment beyond 2029” to the club’s development under his sporting leadership.

The club said its ambition was to build a team capable of competing for the biggest achievements. However, the announcement did not confirm a signed contract extension or give a new expiry date.

When could Emery’s new Aston Villa contract be announced?

BBC Sport reports that Emery is close to agreeing an extension, with all sides keen to prolong his time at Villa Park.

The remaining discussions concern the detail of the agreement, including its duration and finances. An announcement is expected once those terms are settled, with the BBC reporting that confirmation is unlikely before the weekend.

Emery’s existing deal already runs until 2029. He signed that five-year contract in May 2024, after guiding Villa to fourth place and Champions League qualification in his first full season.

Manchester United links put focus on Old Trafford trip

Emery has been linked with United as a potential replacement for Michael Carrick, whose position has come under scrutiny following a difficult start to the season.

Sunday’s meeting puts the Villa boss opposite the club mentioned in those reports. For now, the confirmed development is Villa’s public commitment to Emery, with the proposed extension still being finalised.

Villa head to Manchester looking to respond to Tuesday’s 3-0 defeat at Barcelona. That was their first loss in this season’s Champions League, following three wins from their opening three matches.

Emery’s Villa rebuild brings European success

Emery arrived from Villarreal in October 2022 with Villa fighting to stay clear of the relegation places. Four years later, he has taken the club into the Champions League twice and delivered European silverware.

May’s Europa League triumph ended Villa’s 30-year wait for a major trophy. They have qualified for European competition in every season under his management.

Villa are currently 10th in the Premier League. Securing Emery’s longer-term future would give the club continuity as they balance another European campaign with the push to climb the domestic table.