Aston Villa and Spurs target 25-year-old Ligue 1 midfielder

Pavel Sulc emerges as a target for both Premier League clubs as they look to bolster their midfield options.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Premier League clubs Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in signing 25-year-old Lyon midfielder Pavel Sulc. Sulc has impressed in Ligue 1 this season, scoring 13 goals in 29 appearances since joining from Viktoria Plzen. Both clubs are said to be monitoring the Czech international, who could provide creativity and goal-scoring ability to their respective midfields.

Why it matters

The pursuit of Sulc by these two clubs highlights the Premier League's middle tier looking to close the gap on the elite teams. Both Aston Villa under Unai Emery and Tottenham under interim manager Igor Tudor are seeking to add quality and depth to their squads, with Sulc's versatility and goal-scoring record making him an attractive target.

The details

Lyon are reportedly valuing Sulc at around £43 million, though there is hope the fee could be negotiated down. The 25-year-old's impressive goal return has inflated his value, but he is yet to be tested in the Premier League. Atletico Madrid's reported interest also complicates the chase, as the Spanish giants can offer Champions League football and a proven track record of developing creative midfielders.

  • Sulc joined Lyon from Viktoria Plzen in the summer of 2025.
  • He has scored 13 goals in 29 appearances for Lyon so far this season.

The players

Pavel Sulc

A 25-year-old Czech midfielder currently playing for Lyon in Ligue 1, who has attracted interest from Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur.

Unai Emery

The manager of Aston Villa, who is looking to add depth and creativity to his midfield.

Igor Tudor

The interim manager of Tottenham Hotspur, who is overseeing a period of recalibration for the club.

Diego Simeone

The manager of Atletico Madrid, who are also reportedly interested in signing Pavel Sulc.

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What’s next

The clubs will likely continue to monitor Sulc's progress and performance in Ligue 1, while also assessing whether he would be a good fit for their respective squads and tactical systems. The competition from Atletico Madrid could also influence Sulc's decision on his next move.

The takeaway

The pursuit of Pavel Sulc by Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur highlights the Premier League's middle tier clubs looking to close the gap on the elite teams by targeting promising young talent with the potential to make an immediate impact.