Aston Villa have unveiled their financials for last year, unfortunately revealing a deficit of £119.6 million (approximately HK$1.196 billion). The team's key players are expected to be transferred this summer in order to meet the financial threshold of the Premier League, with Lance and Douglas Reyes seemingly at the forefront of the list of departures.
The club managed to keep a surplus of £300,000 last year despite being stretched for revenue. Thanks to the excellent coaching of Emery, the team's performance has leapt dramatically, finishing seventh in the Premier League last season. This season, Villa made its debut in the group stage of the European Confederation, and the club's revenue soared to £217.7 million (about HK$2.177 billion), but despite this, costs also rose, ending up with a loss after tax of £119.6 million.
In the face of the Premier League's profitability and sustainability rules, Villa has made it clear that it will continue to operate robustly and follow its established strategic business blueprint. Currently, Villa are at the top of the league and are in contention for a Europa League spot, which will bring in more revenue for the club.
But in the meantime, the team must adhere to strict financial guidelines of the Premier League and may have to sell key players to raise funds. Newcastle are said to be eyeing Lance, while Arsenal have a soft spot for Douglas Reyes. It is highly likely that these two core players will leave Villa this summer.
