- Lamare Bogarde is in talks with Aston Villa over a new contract
- He recently signed a contract extension last year
- This latest set of talks may be to fend off interest from Brighton
Aston Villa has opened talks with Lamare Bogarde over a new contract, despite only signing a new deal last year.
The 22-year-old versatile Dutchman, who can operate as a defensive midfielder, right-back and centre-back, has been progressing well at Villa, with his performances set to earn him new terms.
Bogarde joined the Midlands club from Feyenoord’s academy in 2020. Since his arrival, his development has been carefully managed through a couple of loan spells with Bristol Rovers, where he gained crucial first-team experience.
His adaptability, composure on the ball, and versatility quickly caught the eye of Villa’s coaching staff, earning him regular integration into senior training sessions and matchday squads.
Emery’s tactical system heavily relies on technically proficient defenders who can build up play from the back. Bogarde fits this profile perfectly. The Spaniard has spoken highly of the youngster’s work ethic and maturity, emphasising that academy graduates with high tactical intelligence are essential for maintaining squad depth in demanding domestic and European campaigns.
Fend off interest and home-grown factor
Peter O’Rourke from Football Insider has revealed the talks, with Brighton’s interest a catalyst for the timing of them. The Seagulls reportedly eyed up a move for Bogarde in the January transfer window, but never made an official offer, as Villa wanted to keep him.
Beyond fending off other clubs, securing Bogarde’s future aids Villa with their Champions League squad registration. UEFA strictly enforces an “A-List” squad limit of 25 players, which must include at least eight “locally trained” or homegrown players.
As he joined Villa in 2020 at the age of 16, he successfully fulfils the criteria for a club-trained home-grown player. With the Villans now competing consistently in European competitions, losing a versatile, club-trained asset would severely restrict Emery’s quad depth.
ReadAstonVilla verdict
Ultimately, Bogarde’s ascent into becoming a precious squad player for Unai Emery has certainly earned him a new contract. His immediate impact lies in his positional versatility and composure to step up when needed, giving his teammates vital insurance across the backline and midfield during grueling, congested campaigns.
Looking ahead, Bogarde’s future at Villa Park is immensely bright. Rather than just a squad depth option, he possesses the raw technical profile and tactical intelligence required to develop into a potential regular starter in future years.
By fending off Premier League interest to secure his commitment, Villa are not just protecting a valuable homegrown asset; they are anchoring a player whose value could continue to rise.
Under Emery’s meticulous guidance, Bogarde is perfectly positioned to transition from a highly-rated prospect into a top-level Premier League player.
