Aston Villa are reportedly lookinto steal the march on Manchester City in the race to sign Gabriel Sara from Galarasaray.

Aston Villa are ready to open talks with Galatasaray to signing Brazilian midfielder Gabriel Sara as Unai Emery looks to bolster his squad with high-calibre reinforcements in the middle of the park.

As things stand, ASton Villa have taken the most concrete steps so far in pursuit of the 26-year-old, who has attracted significant attention across the Premier League. Galatasaray are reportedly reluctant to lose Sara, but may consider letting him go for the right offer, believed to be in the region of €40 million.

Villa’s midfield plans are taking shape

Aston Villa’s midfield has been in a sort of transition since the departure of Douglas Luiz to Juventus a year ago, and Unai Emery is keen to fill that gap with a versatile talent. Gabriel Sara, who has been a standout performer in Turkey, fits the mould perfectly, a creative presence who can also contribute defensively and carry the ball forward.

The Brazilian is equally comfortable in an attacking midfield role or as a box-to-box presence, offering tactical flexibility, something Emery values highly. With Aston Villa preparing for a busy European campaign alongside their domestic ambitions, Sara’s arrival would add much-needed depth and dynamism to the engine room.

While talks are yet to formally begin, it is understood that Villa are poised to accelerate discussions. The major hurdle, however, remains the asking price. According to Caught Offside, Aston Villa value Gabriel Sara closer to €20 million, meaning a significant negotiation will be needed before any agreement is reached.

Premier League rivals in the mix

Manchester City have also been credited with interest in the Galatasaray star, as have Everton, Leeds United, Nottingham Forest, and Wolves. However, Villa’s intent appears the most serious at this stage, and they are optimistic about convincing both the club and the player.

Manchester City may have the financial muscle to match Galatasaray’s valuation, but Aston Villa are banking on a more immediate role and project appeal under Emery to sway the midfielder’s decision. Given Sara’s playing style and profile, he could flourish in a side that allows him the freedom to influence the tempo and contribute to both ends of the pitch.

If ASton Villa can pull off the move for Gabriel Sara, it would send a clear message about the club’s ambitions this season. With a return to the UEFA Champions League an immediate target and momentum building, securing a player of Sara’s quality would reinforce Villa’s desire to remain in the Premier League’s upper tier.