AC Milan’s Ruben Loftus-Cheek is wanted by Aston Villa – but here’s why a transfer is unlikely

AC Milan midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek has become a transfer target for Aston Villa as the injuries continue to mount for Unai Emery’s side.

Youri Tielemans has become the latest first team player to pick up an injury after hurting his ankle injury during the recent win over Newcastle.

With Boubacar Kamara already ruled out for the remainder of the season and captain John McGinn facing weeks out, Villa have identified Milan’s Loftus-Cheek as a high-priority solution.

Loftus-Cheek found himself on Villa’s radar last week following the injury to Kamara but Tielemans injury will have only stepped up their pursuit.

The former Chelsea man has revitalized his career in Italy, but a return to the Premier League isn’t a foregone conclusion. Despite the strong interest from Villa, sources indicate that Loftus-Cheek is in no rush to sign a new deal or force an exit.

Midfield crisis puts Ruben Loftus-Cheek on the Villa radar

The necessity for a Ruben Loftus-Cheek transfer to Villa has become a worrying priority given the winter window is just days away from closing.

Emery has been forced to get creative with his selections, but the loss of Tielemans’ progressive passing and Kamara’s defensive screening has left a void that current squad players are struggling to fill.

Loftus-Cheek’s versatility can help provide a blend of both as Villa look to start the second half of the season strongly – just how they finished the first half of the campaign.

The England international is also no stranger to Premier League football, having notched over 150 appearances for Chelsea before his move to the San Siro in 2023.

— Boubacar Kamara (out for the season)
— John McGinn (6 weeks out)
— Youri Tielemans (6+ weeks out-ish)

How is your luck, Aston Villa football club?

Unbelievable. #AVFC pic.twitter.com/jWMcA8EkwQ

— Aston Villa Statto (@AVFCStatto) January 27, 2026

Villa’s recruitment staff have been monitoring his situation closely, especially as his minutes have seen a slight fluctuation under the current Milan regime.

However, Villa aren’t the only side interested in signing Loftus-Cheek. While they face competition for his signature, their promise of minutes while being in the hunt for a lofty finish could be a enticing one for any potential signing.

But while Villa are an attractive proposition, there are two big reasons that could prevent any move from happening for Loftus-Cheek.

The reasons why an Milan exit is highly unlikely for Loftus-Cheek

While the English press has ramped up talk of a move, the reality in Milan looks quite different.

Loftus-Cheek has a strong relationship with Massimilliano Allegri, and is currently viewed as a crucial part of his plans.

Milan’s hierarchy has also reportedly slapped a price tag of at least $16.6million (£13m) on the midfielder, but even that figure might not be enough to trigger a sale. Any offer would have to far exceed what Loftus-Cheek’s value is to make a move happen.

The Italian giants aren’t interested in weakening their squad mid-season without a guaranteed, high-level replacement already through the door.

❗️AC Milan are hoping to extend the contract of Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

(@MatteMoretto) pic.twitter.com/jSNh8mQ1p1

— Calcio_FCEN (@CalcioFc_EN) January 27, 2026

As well as this, Loftus-Cheek is in line for a contract extension at Milan. Rather than looking for the exit, Loftus-Cheek’s representatives have been in dialogue with the Rossoneri regarding a deal that would keep him in Italy well beyond his current contract which is up in 2027.

The midfielder has also recently regained his place in the England setup under Thomas Tuchel, and there’s a prevailing sense that staying in a settled environment at Milan is his best bet for securing a spot in the upcoming World Cup squad.

Unless Villa arrives with hug offer that Milan can’t refuse, then the England midfielder looks destined to finish the campaign in the red and black stripes.