Aston Villa’s search for consistency on the left wing comes as Unai Emery continues to rotate his attacking options during the 2026/27 campaign. Villa sit ninth in the Premier League with 11 points from eight matches, recording three wins, two draws and three defeats, while their European form has offered bigger encouragement.
Their 6-0 Champions League victory over Fenerbahce exposed weaknesses in the Turkish side, while giving Villa’s recruitment team an opportunity to assess opposition players. Emery’s team have shared left-wing duties between Alejandro Garnacho, Johan Manzambi, Emi Buendia and teenage prospect Ibrahim Mbaye, with no clear first choice emerging.
That uncertainty affects Villa’s attacking plans, particularly as the club balance immediate results with the development of younger recruits. Garnacho joined on loan from Chelsea, while Mbaye needs regular opportunities without carrying excessive responsibility in demanding domestic and European fixtures. Emery therefore needs a dependable option who can strengthen the left flank without restricting the teenager’s progress.
According to Birmingham Live, citing Turkish outlet NTV, Villa sent scouts to watch Oğuz Aydın during Fenerbahce’s 2-1 defeat against Galatasaray. The 26-year-old provided an assist for İrfan Can Kahveci, strengthening interest that reportedly began when he faced Villa earlier this month.
The Dutch-born Türkiye international has recorded three goals and four assists across 17 appearances in all competitions this season. He also scored in Fenerbahce’s 2-2 Champions League draw with Slavia Prague. His contract runs until 2028, although Fenerbahce reportedly want to extend it, and Villa have reportedly contacted his agent.
Would Aydın strengthen Villa without limiting Mbaye’s development?
ISTANBUL, TURKEY – OCTOBER 26: Roland SallaiRoland Sallai of Galatasaray is challenged by Oguz Aydin of Fenerbahce during the Turkish Super League 2026/27 match between Galatasaray SK and Fenerbahce SK at Rams Park Stadium on October 26, 2026 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)
A January move could give Emery a more experienced option who operates on either flank, presses diligently and contributes in transition. His output offers a useful starting point, although Villa should assess his defensive numbers and suitability for Premier League intensity before committing significant funds.
Financially, his existing contract gives Fenerbahce a degree of control, while a renewal could strengthen their negotiating position and complicate Villa’s efforts to secure a deal. No reliable transfer fee or weekly wage has emerged, so claims that Villa could secure him cheaply would be premature.
For Villa, the strongest case rests on squad balance. Aydın could ease the burden on Mbaye, provide competition for Garnacho and give Emery another option when matches demand greater defensive discipline.
However, Villa have already invested heavily in their squad, and another signing must offer clear value rather than simply add to the rotation. If the scouting reports confirm his tactical discipline and Premier League suitability, Aydın could address a genuine weakness while allowing Mbaye to develop at a sensible pace.