Aston Villa Have Already Made Initial Contacts To Sign This German Veteran: A Good Choice For Emery?

Aston Villa are looking to strengthen the team in the January transfer window. The Premier League club are very interested in signing Barcelona keeper Marc-André ter Stegen. A report from Radio Marca says the Birmingham club has already made contact about the German international.

Ter Stegen transfer saga:

Ter Stegen currently struggles to get regular games in Spain. Because of that, the 33-year-old is searching for a way out. Joan García is the top choice for the Catalan giants this season. Ter Stegen has had a massive career with six La Liga titles and plenty of European experience.

Even so, he isn’t interested in sitting on the bench at this point in his career. On top of that, what happens with Emiliano Martínez plays a big part in this move. The Argentine World Cup winner is still a target for several top European clubs.

If Martínez does leave Villa Park, the club would need someone with just as much experience right away. Ter Stegen fits that mould perfectly because of his passing skills and leadership.

Aston Villa
VILLARREAL, SPAIN – DECEMBER 21: Marc-Andre ter Stegen of FC Barcelona warms up prior to the LaLiga EA Sports match between Villarreal CF and FC Barcelona at Estadio de la Ceramica on December 21, 2025 in Villarreal, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Right now, Unai Emery’s side is third in the Premier League. They need experienced players to keep up this push for a Champions League spot during a tough second half of the season. Plus, Barcelona seem happy to let the move happen.

The board wants to move on players who aren’t starting to clear up some cash for new signings. Since Ter Stegen is on high wages but barely plays for Hansi Flick, letting him go helps the Spanish club’s finances. In the end, a move to England works for everyone. It gives the German keeper the start he wants and gives Villa a proven winner in goal.

Opinion: Do Aston Villa Need Ter Stegen?

Aston Villa should only go after Ter Stegen if Emiliano Martínez actually leaves in January. If they bring in the German veteran while keeping Martínez, it would just leave them with two expensive keepers, which would mess with the team’s chemistry. However, if the Argentine moves on, Ter Stegen is a great, affordable option who brings immediate stability.