Aston Villa have opened direct negotiations with Real Betis for 19-year-old winger Jesus Rodriguez, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. The talks began this week as the Premier League club looked to move quickly ahead of competition from England and Europe.
Rodriguez, who was born in 2005, is seen as one of La Liga’s most exciting young players and has already made 35 appearances for Betis last season, scoring three goals, and also played a key role in their run to the Europa Conference League final, where they faced Chelsea.
But Villa aren’t the only club looking for the signature of the Spaniard. He is on the shortlist of several top clubs, including Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal, and RB Leipzig.
🚨🟣🔵 EXCL: Aston Villa start club to club talks for Real Betis talent Jesús Rodriguez.
2005 born talent on shortlist of several clubs but Villa made contact this week to start discussions. pic.twitter.com/cXSG4Ys1pS
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 13, 2025
In case Villa want to complete the deal swiftly, they may need to act fast. Leipzig are said to have already had a £20 million bid rejected, while Betis are reportedly open to selling if a stronger offer arrives. Rodriguez has a €50 million release clause, though Betis may settle for less to pursue other targets.
Emery adds another top prospect to his rebuild.
Unai Emery is expected to play a direct role in the pursuit. With question marks over Leon Bailey’s future and no clear left-wing starter, Rodriguez could offer instant impact.
He also earned a Spain U21 call-up in March, making appearances against Germany and Ukraine.
Villa have already signed Feyenoord’s Zepiqueno Redmond, and if they add Rodriguez, the club could head into next season with two of Europe’s most promising wingers.
Aston Villa news and related links
