Aston Villa are suddenly in the market for emergency cover after losing defensive midfielder Boubacar Kamara to a serious knee injury. Manager Unai Emery is considering short-term solutions to prevent the injury from disrupting the club's remarkable season. Currently, one player at the top of their list is AC Milan midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
Kamara sustained the injury during the FA Cup victory over Tottenham on January 10. The France international is now expected to miss the remainder of the 2025/26 season. It is a situation that can not be overlooked for a side competing at the top of the Premier League and pushing hard for Champions League qualification.
Under Emery’s system, Kamara is essential for protecting the defense and maintaining control. Villa will feel his absence, which is why Loftus-Cheek has entered the conversation as a serious target. The 29-year-old midfielder offers physical presence and, crucially, would not require any time to adapt to the Premier League, having already made over 150 appearances in the division.
Loftus-Cheek joined AC Milan from Chelsea in 2023 and remains under contract until June 2027. His role has become more limited since Massimiliano Allegri took over as Milan's manager, which has opened the door for interest from other clubs.
Aston Villa previously targeted Conor Gallagher, but they missed out on the England international, who recently joined Tottenham. Loftus-Cheek wouldn't be a direct replacement for Kamara due to their different playing styles, but he would provide depth to the midfield.
Aston Villa are currently exploring a loan move with an option to buy, while Milan would prefer a permanent sale to get the player off their books. Interestingly, the Italian giants have also offered the player to Manchester United as they look to spark a bidding war. Furthermore, Lazio manager Maurizio Sarri is reportedly keen on a reunion with his former Chelsea midfielder.
Decisions like this mean that Villa are no longer operating like a mid-table side. They are already a club capable of competing at the very top. The plan is clear and aims to ensure that Kamara’s injury does not derail their progress.
