Everton have set their sights on Aston Villa’s influential midfielder John McGinn, but their hopes of securing the 30-year-old Scotland international have been dealt a blow, with Villa signaling their intent to retain their captain. According to reports from Football Insider, the Toffees have inquired about the availability of McGinn, who has been a cornerstone of Villa’s resurgence under Unai Emery, but the Midlands club are resolute in keeping the dynamic midfielder at Villa Park.
🚨 NEW: Everton have shown interest in John McGinn, but Aston Villa have indicated they would like to keep him. @J_Tanswell #avfc
— villareport (@villareport) July 8, 2025
Background on McGinn
McGinn, who has worn the captain’s armband for Villa since 2022, has been a pivotal figure in their rise to prominence, including their qualification for the Champions League in the 2023/24 season. The former Hibernian star, who joined Villa in 2018 for just £2.5 million, has made 254 appearances for the club, scoring 28 goals and providing 34 assists. His tireless work rate, leadership, and ability to influence games in both midfield and attack have made him a fan favorite and a key component of Emery’s system.
Everton's Interest
Everton’s interest comes as manager David Moyes looks to bolster his squad ahead of a crucial 2025/26 Premier League campaign, with the club aiming to build on their mid-table finish last season. McGinn’s experience, versatility, and proven quality in the Premier League make him an attractive target for the Toffees, who are seeking to add steel and creativity to their midfield. The 30-year-old’s 75 caps for Scotland, including his standout performances at Euro 2024, further underline his pedigree.However, Aston Villa are in no mood to part with their captain, who signed a new contract in 2023 that runs until 2027. Sources close to the club indicate that Villa view McGinn as integral to their ambitions of competing at the top end of the Premier League and in European competition. Emery’s side have already fended off interest in other key players this summer, including Ollie Watkins, and are determined to maintain the core of their squad.
While Everton’s financial constraints under Profitability and Sustainability Rules limit their ability to make a blockbuster offer, their inquiry reflects their ambition to target high-caliber players like McGinn. However, any potential move would likely require a significant bid to even tempt Villa into negotiations, given McGinn’s importance and his long-term commitment to the club.As the transfer window progresses, Everton may need to explore alternative targets to strengthen their midfield, while Villa fans can take heart in their club’s firm stance on retaining their talismanic captain. For now, John McGinn remains the heartbeat of Aston Villa, and the Midlands club are determined to keep it that way.
