Newcastle dominated the first-half, although neither side broke the deadlock. Anthony Elanga was played through on goal early doors, but his shot was saved. The visitors ended up having eight shots, while Villa did not trouble Nick Pope in the Newcastle goal once.

Manager Unai Emery has been pushing for his return, convinced the 28-year-old can add creativity, experience, and extra quality to the attack. Villa’s pursuit has also been boosted by Jacob Ramsey’s £40 million move to Newcastle United, which opened up both the funds and the squad space needed to make the deal happen.

Newcastle United face Aston Villa in a Premier League match on Saturday, August 16, 2025 (8/16/25) at Villa Park in Birmingham, England.

Sources: Newcastle could be prompted to make a move for an Aston Villa forward if the Villans secure a Premier League transfer

Everything you need to know ahead of Friday's Premier League clash at the London Stadium between West Ham United and Chelsea.