Aston Villa face a major test of resolve this summer as Europe’s elite look to lure away Morgan Rogers after an impressive campaign.
The 23-year-old England international has become one of the most sought-after talents and is expected to leave Villa Park.
Speculation swirled over Rogers’ future last summer. Manager Unai Emery intervened, convincing the attacker that Villa was the best place for his development at that stage.
Rogers continued his meteoric rise last season, registering 25 direct goal contributions in 55 appearances across all competitions.
Keeping hold of Rogers is now a far more complicated task. Arsenal are tracking the playmaker to strengthen their newly crowned Premier League champions.
Manchester City, Manchester United and Chelsea are also monitoring his progress.
The Premier League’s strict squad cost ratio regulations, which limit Villa to spending 70 percent of their revenue on player wages, are a major issue.
However, Villa’s board have no intention of letting their prized asset leave on the cheap.
With Rogers tied down to a contract running for another five years, early indications suggest Villa will demand a fee exceeding the £100m Manchester City paid for Jack Grealish in 2021.
Any deal is further complicated by a 20% sell-on clause owed to former club Middlesbrough.
With the ‘unplayable‘ Rogers set to showcase his talents on the world stage with England at the 2026 World Cup, his valuation could rise even further.
