
Breaking News: Aston Villa Beats Nottingham Forest to Reach Agreement with Schalke 04 Star Moussa Sylla
In a stunning development on March 23, 2025, Aston Villa has reportedly outmaneuvered Premier League rivals Nottingham Forest to secure an agreement with FC Schalke 04’s prolific striker, Moussa Sylla. The 25-year-old Malian forward, who has been a revelation in the 2. Bundesliga with 12 goals this season, is now poised to join Unai Emery’s high-flying Villa squad as they continue their push in both domestic and European competitions.
Sylla, who transferred to Schalke from Pau FC in the summer of 2024 for €2.5 million, has quickly become a cornerstone of the German side’s attack. His dynamic partnership with Kenan Karaman, which has produced 21 of Schalke’s 32 league goals, has caught the eye of several clubs across Europe. However, it’s Aston Villa who have reportedly struck a deal, with sources suggesting a transfer fee in the region of €6 million—a bargain considering Sylla’s form and potential.
Nottingham Forest had been heavily linked with Sylla, aiming to bolster their attacking options amid a competitive Premier League campaign. But Villa, fresh off a strong season that sees them challenging for European spots, moved decisively to secure the striker. The agreement comes as Schalke grapples with financial difficulties, including debts exceeding €168 million, potentially forcing them to cash in despite Sylla’s contract running until 2028.
For Villa, this move underscores Emery’s ambition to add firepower to a squad already featuring talents like Ollie Watkins and Jhon Durán. Sylla’s pace, clinical finishing, and versatility could provide the perfect complement, especially with Villa competing in multiple competitions. Fans are buzzing with excitement, seeing this as a statement signing ahead of the summer window.
Schalke supporters, however, are less thrilled, fearing the loss of their talisman mid-season could derail their promotion hopes. Sylla has remained diplomatic, previously stating, “My focus is on giving my best for Schalke,” but the lure of the Premier League and Villa’s project may prove irresistible. As of 3:07 PM CET, the deal awaits final confirmation, but all signs point to Sylla donning the claret and blue soon. This transfer coup could mark a defining moment in Villa’s resurgence under Emery’s stewardship.