Aston Villa have reached a verbal agreement to sign German midfielder Leon Goretzka on a free transfer, with the move now progressing towards completion. The agreement follows direct talks between Goretzka and Villa manager Unai Emery, who personally outlined the club’s project to the experienced midfielder.
Goretzka, 31, became a free agent after leaving Bayern Munich at the end of the 2025/26 season when his contract expired. Bayern had confirmed earlier in the year that the midfielder would depart after an eight-year spell at the club.
During his time in Munich, Goretzka established himself as an important midfielder and won multiple major honours, including seven Bundesliga titles and the 2020 UEFA Champions League. He also earned 73 caps for Germany.
Villa have been looking to strengthen their midfield following Amadou Onana’s serious injury and Youri Tielemans’ departure for Manchester United. Their pursuit of João Palhinha did not materialise, leading the club to turn to Goretzka as an experienced alternative.
The next steps are expected to be a medical and the signing of the formal contract, with the move reportedly planned for completion in the coming week.
