Aston Villa’s chase for Julian Brandt seems to have reached an impasse, at least for the upcoming winter transfer window. According to Bild via Sport Witness, the 29-year-old playmaker aims to continue his career in Germany until the season concludes, with Borussia Dortmund eager to extend his stay beyond his current contract.
Aston Villa won’t be acquiring Julian Brandt this January
Brandt’s performance statistics underscore his significance: he has netted four goals and provided two assists in 13 appearances this season, proving to be a key player for Dortmund. Although his contract is set to expire next summer, the club is reluctant to let him depart without compensation.
Reports indicate that Dortmund has proposed a new contract to keep the German international. However, if Brandt declines the offer, the club may consider a January transfer if the right financial terms are presented.
FRANKFURT AM MAIN, GERMANY – OCTOBER 28: Julian Brandt of Borussia Dortmund celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal during the DFB Cup match between Eintracht Frankfurt and Borussia Dortmund at Deutsche Bank Park on October 28, 2025, in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. (Photo by Christian Kaspar-Bartke/Getty Images)
Several teams are reportedly poised to make a move should the asking price be reasonable. Despite this interest, Brandt remains steadfast in his intention to stay in the Bundesliga until at least summer and has expressed a willingness to negotiate a contract extension. With Aston Villa previously linked to him, they may now reconsider their strategy and shift attention to potential targets once the season wraps up. Reports also suggest that the Birmingham club is eyeing Christian Pulisic.
Is Brandt the right fit for Birmingham?
From Aston Villa’s perspective, the need for increased creativity is pressing. Manager Unai Emery is seeking new options, especially with uncertainty surrounding Emiliano Buendía and potential complications due to Elliott’s loan situation.
However, while Brandt is in peak form and thrives in a fast-paced system, integrating him mid-season may require time, something Villa may not have. The team is seeking immediate results, making it more pragmatic to invest in a player already familiar with the Premier League’s tempo rather than gamble on a transfer that seems unlikely to materialize before summer.