Published Jul 3, 2026, 6:41 PM GMT+1

Emilio is an experienced football journalist who has worked at Football FanCast for over six years.

After graduating with first-class honours from the University of Central Lancashire in 2019, it didn't take long for Emilio to clinch his first job in journalism at Snack Media, now Valnet.

Emilio has written for a host of the company's biggest past and current football news websites - Vital Football, The Transfer Tavern and Football FanCast. 

Emilio's strengths include the intricacies of football transfers, while he particularly enjoys writing about the business side of football. He has covered Tottenham Hotspur on a weekly basis for a number of years now, developing a deep understanding of the culture and what Lilywhites fans engage with.

In his spare time, you can find Emilio travelling the world, or even in a boxing ring.

Villa have been tracking Moussa this window as Unai Emery looks to add more pace, directness and creativity in wide areas.

Newcastle are also said to be monitoring the situation, setting up a potential Premier League battle for the Feyenoord attacker if he becomes available.

The 22-year-old has enjoyed a standout season in the Netherlands, scoring 14 goals and providing seven assists in 40 appearances for Feyenoord across all competitions.

Those numbers have pushed him firmly onto the radar of clubs across Europe, with his ability to beat defenders one-v-one and cut inside from wide areas seen as his biggest strength.

His rise has also continued on the international stage.

Moussa has been involved with Algeria and featured at the World Cup, with the African side’s tournament coming to an end this morning after a round of 32 knockout defeat to Switzerland.

Despite the exit, Moussa’s profile has grown rather, with his performances at both club and international level increasing interest in his services.

Anis Hadj Moussa's agent speaks out after Aston Villa transfer hint

As relayed by Maghreb Foot, Moussa’s agent, Mohamed Dahman, has now spoken publicly about the winger’s situation after the player posted a cryptic message on social media, hinting at excitement over a possible future move.

While nothing has been confirmed, the post has fuelled speculation that he could be open to a new challenge away from Feyenoord, and that is where Villa come in.

Moussa liked a post on Instagram reporting on Villa's interest in him, suggesting that there is something very concrete going on here as the Midlands club battle Newcastle for his services.

Emery’s side are continuing to build a squad capable of competing across multiple competitions, and wide attacking depth remains a priority.

Why Aston Villa are chasing Anis Hadj Moussa

Moussa fits the type of profile Villa have targeted in recent windows: young, technically strong, and already producing serious end product at a high level in Europe.

He is comfortable operating on either flank, though he is most dangerous when cutting in from the right onto his stronger foot.

The African's acceleration over short distances, combined with his confidence in taking on defenders, makes him a constant threat.

According to WhoScored, Moussa averaged more key passes per 90 than any other Feyenoord player in the Europa League last season, all while finishing their European campaign joint-top of the team when it came to successful take-ons.

However, any move would depend on Feyenoord’s valuation and willingness to sell, with the Dutch club reportedly demanding a minimum £30 million to let him go.

Newcastle’s interest also adds another layer of competition, meaning Villa would likely have to act decisively if they decide to turn interest into a formal approach.

Moussa feels like exactly the kind of signing Villa have become smarter at making in recent years.

He is not the finished product, but his output last campaign showed serious end product for a wide man still developing, albeit in an inferior league.

Under Emery, his direct style and aggressive running could translate well to the Premier League.