Aston Villa have emerged as one of the clubs keeping a close eye on Roger Ibañez. And right after the Brazilian put contract extension talks with Al-Ahli on hold.
The defender has attracted interest from the Premier League and Aston Villa are already making moves behind the scenes, even if a formal offer has yet to arrive.
Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri reports Unai Emery’s side have made repeated contact with the player’s representatives in recent weeks. Nevertheless, those discussions have not yet developed into concrete negotiations with Al-Ahli. Villa are 100% in the picture.
Roger Ibañez’s decision to pause talks over a new deal in Saudi Arabia naturally opens the door for interested clubs. They can now test the waters before the window closes.
Versatility could appeal to Emery
Roger Ibañez was part of Brazil’s squad at this summer’s World Cup, underlining how highly he is still regarded despite leaving Europe for Saudi Arabia in 2023.
While naturally a centre-back, the 27-year-old has also shown he can fill in at right-back when required. That versatility is often valued by Unai Emery, particularly across a long season that includes European football.
Of course Villa have yet to submit an official bid. However, the repeated contact with the defender’s camp suggests they are doing their groundwork before deciding whether to make a move.
Saudi future no longer straightforward
Roger Ibañez has been an important player for Al-Ahli since joining from Roma. Still, his decision to halt extension talks changes the picture.
According to Tavolieri, several Premier League clubs have registered interest. At present, Aston Villa are currently the most visible name linked to the Brazilian.
Whether that develops into a formal offer remains to be seen, but Villa now have an opportunity to monitor the situation while the defender’s contractual future remains unresolved.
For now, this story is still at an early stage. Even so, Ibañez’s stance on a new contract is enough to make this one worth watching over the coming weeks.
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✅ Transfer green light expected shortlyhttps://t.co/6JZZHs40rF #avfc #lfc #nufc— Sport Witness (@Sport_Witness) August 5, 2026
