Argentina midfielder's sliding doors moment with Aston Villa transfer

Matías Soulé nearly joined Aston Villa for €35m last summer but chose to stay at Roma; he has since become indispensable under Gasperini and his value has risen to €50m.

Matías Soulé came close to leaving Roma in the summer transfer window, with Aston Villa, Borussia Dortmund, and AC Milan all interested in signing the Argentine midfielder. Roma were willing to sell for €35m to raise capital gains under UEFA FFP obligations, but Soulé ultimately decided to stay after what he described as a 'little voice' telling him to remain in the Italian capital.

The decision has proven pivotal. Under Gian Piero Gasperini, Soulé has transformed from a sellable asset into an indispensable player. He has contributed six goals in Serie A this season and impressed in Roma's defeat against Manchester United. His market value has risen to €50m, and the club is no longer considering his departure.

Soulé, a former Juventus player, is on track for his best goal tally in a single season and is targeting double figures.

The midfielder's recovery from muscle injuries that plagued his 2025/26 campaign was aided by staying at Roma and training under Gasperini's system. Had he moved to Aston Villa, he would have faced different physical demands and tactical adjustments under Unai Emery, potentially hindering his development. Aston Villa may now view the failed transfer as a significant regret.