Should Aston Villa Hijack Tottenham’s Transfer Plans For This €40m Rated Striker?

Should Aston Villa Hijack Tottenham’s Transfer Plans For This €40m Rated Striker? Aston Villa could face competition from Tottenham Hotspur for Benfica striker Vangelis Pavlidis, who reportedly wants to fulfil his ambition of playing in the Premier League. According to Portuguese newspaper A Bola, via Sport Witness , the Greek international remains interested in English football and would welcome an opportunity to leave Lisbon if Benfica approve his departure. Aston Villa face competition for Vangelis Pavlidis transfer Pavlidis hasn’t forced an exit, though. The 27-year-old continues to perform professionally for Benfica, but his preference for a Premier League move could become relevant if an interested club submits an acceptable offer. Benfica previously placed a €40 million valuation on the forward despite his €100 million release clause. Several major European clubs explored opportunities during the previous transfer window, including Barcelona , AC Milan, Juventus and Beşiktaş. However, those approaches failed to produce an agreement. Marco Silva considered Pavlidis an important part of his plans and made retaining the striker a priority. Consequently, Benfica refused to sanction his departure despite interest from several established European sides. His performances explain that resistance. Pavlidis registered 30 goals during his previous campaign and has already recorded 14 goals and three assists this season. Those numbers give interested clubs a clear indication of his finishing ability and attacking contribution. Tottenham’s interest could develop into something more concrete. A Spurs scout reportedly watched him during Benfica’s meeting with FC Porto, suggesting that the London club continues to assess his performances. Should Aston Villa challenge Tottenham for Pavlidis? LISBON, PORTUGAL – JULY 30: Vangelis Pavlidis of SL Benfica in action during the UEFA Europa League Qualifier match between SL Benfica and St. Gallen at Estadio da Luz on July 30, 2026 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images) Aston Villa have several attacking options, including Nicolas Jackson, Tammy Abraham and young Brian Madjo. That competition could discourage Unai Emery from pursuing another centre-forward, particularly if his existing players remain available. However, squad numbers don’t always tell the complete story. Jackson’s fitness, Abraham’s performances and Madjo’s development will influence Emery’s recruitment decisions. Pavlidis offers considerably more established goalscoring experience than a teenage prospect, although signing another senior striker could restrict opportunities elsewhere. Tottenham could have a clearer opening if Richarlison leaves after falling outside Roberto De Zerbi’s plans. Pavlidis would then compete with Dominic Solanke and Omar Marmoush for attacking responsibilities. My opinion? Aston Villa shouldn’t dismiss this opportunity, but they must establish their actual requirements before entering negotiations. Jackson deserves an opportunity to establish himself, while Abraham and Madjo need clarity about their positions. Spending €40 million on Pavlidis makes little sense unless Emery identifies a genuine need for another starting striker. Tottenham currently appear better positioned to explore the transfer, while Villa should monitor developments without committing significant resources prematurely.