£100m Liverpool Target in Contract Talks with Aston Villa

Liverpool’s pursuit of Aston Villa winger Morgan Rogers has encountered a significant hurdle after transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Villa have opened negotiations over a new contract for the 22-year-old. The development underlines the Midlands club’s resolve to retain one of English football’s most promising attackers, despite mounting interest from Anfield.

Liverpool scouts have tracked Rogers since last season, impressed by his versatility across the forward line and his powerful ball-carrying skills. Internally, the England international is viewed as a potential long-term successor to either Mohamed Salah or Luis Díaz, offering a blend of pace, creativity and composure in front of goal. Yet any deal will come at a premium: Villa have placed a £100 million valuation on the winger, a figure designed to deter suitors and reflect his rapid progression under Unai Emery.

The timing is delicate for both clubs. Villa must balance the need to keep their home-grown core intact with ongoing Profit and Sustainability Rules considerations, while Liverpool weigh the merits of another blockbuster outlay after last summer’s spend of around £446 million. Unless financial pressures force Villa’s hand or Rogers agitates for a move, Liverpool are expected to postpone a formal approach until at least next summer.

For Villa, rewarding Rogers with improved terms has become a strategic priority. Sources indicate that talks will intensify before Christmas, with the club eager to follow similar extensions recently handed to John McGinn and Matty Cash. Securing Rogers would not only safeguard a key asset but also reinforce the club’s message that they are no longer a stepping-stone for Premier League rivals.

At Anfield, head coach Arne Slot remains focused on sustaining momentum after high-profile victories over Aston Villa and Real Madrid, yet the recruitment department continues to map out future scenarios. Should Rogers commit his long-term future to Villa, Liverpool are prepared to pivot toward emerging wide targets in Germany and Portugal, where scouting activity has increased since October.

While a January move appears improbable given the £100 million asking price, Liverpool’s admiration is unlikely to wane. Should contract negotiations stall or the player seek a fresh challenge, the Reds will be ready to re-enter the race. For now, Villa hold the advantage, and tying down another rising star would further cement their status among the Premier League elite.