Fabrizio Romano Confirms Aston Villa are Leading the Race to Sign 18-year-old Striker | OneFootball

Aston Villa Close in on Feyenoord’s Zepiqueno Redmond

Redmond Identified as Emery’s Forward of the Future

Aston Villa’s approach under Unai Emery has always blended ambition with long-term thinking. That philosophy continues to guide their summer plans as Fabrizio Romano confirms the club is in advanced talks to sign Feyenoord’s 18-year-old striker Zepiqueno Redmond.

Taking to X, Romano reported: “Aston Villa are in talks to sign Feyenoord talent Zepiqueno Redmond, as he’s considered a striker with important potential.

“There are also UK and Italian clubs keen with player now set to make final decisions soon, Villa leading the race and in good position.”

While the youngster’s name may not yet be familiar to many Premier League fans, the significance of Villa’s pursuit should not be underestimated. This isn’t just another academy signing—it’s a calculated gamble on a player viewed internally as a possible heir to Jhon Durán, who departed for Al-Nassr in January for a reported €77 million.

Redmond’s Potential Mirrors Villa’s Bold Strategy

Zepiqueno Redmond, though yet to fully break through at Feyenoord, has shown signs of genuine promise. His Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) stands at just €600,000, largely due to limited first-team action. He’s made just nine appearances for Feyenoord’s senior side—but crucially, two of those came on the European stage in the Champions League.

It was in the domestic cup, however, that Redmond offered a glimpse of his finishing prowess, netting two goals against Maastricht in the KNVB Beker. For an 18-year-old still cutting his teeth in the Eredivisie’s reserves, such moments matter. They’re not merely numbers; they’re signals of readiness and resilience.

Redmond’s positional versatility also appeals. Like Durán, he is comfortable as a central striker but equally effective operating from the wing. In a Villa side that relies on dynamism and tactical adaptability, those attributes could prove invaluable in the years to come.

Work Permit Complications and Development Plans

There is, however, a regulatory hurdle to clear. Redmond is currently ineligible for a UK work permit, which may delay his immediate integration into the Villa first team. Still, this is familiar territory for Premier League clubs, and Villa are reportedly open to loaning Redmond to a European side to help accumulate the points needed under the new post-Brexit system.

It’s a model Chelsea have used effectively in recent years—signing young international talent, developing them abroad, and welcoming them back ready for Premier League life.

Given Redmond’s age and rawness, such a strategy would likely serve both player and club. And if Villa’s recruitment team continues its recent run of smart investments, this could be a shrewd piece of long-term business.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Villa fans, this is exactly the kind of deal that inspires cautious excitement. While many will be craving ready-made stars this summer, particularly with European football on the horizon, the signing of Zepiqueno Redmond signals something deeper—a club with a plan.

Redmond won’t be the name on everyone’s lips just yet. But neither was Jhon Durán before he arrived and made a mark. This is a signing built on scouting, data, and belief in potential. Fans should see this not as a marquee name, but as an important foundation stone.

What also stands out is how Emery continues to steer Villa’s footballing direction with clarity. Redmond fits into a bigger picture—one of building a squad with depth, youth, and adaptability. He might not be in claret and blue immediately due to work permit rules, but the message is clear: Villa are investing in the future while aiming for the top today.