Aston Villa Want To Sign This Young Goalkeeper: Will He Be A Good Signing For The Lions?

Aston Villa continue to progress with a clear focus as they plan for their future in goal. Their recent seasons have brought stability under Emiliano Martinez. Yet talk about his possible exit refuses to fade. Over the summer, rumours about a move to Manchester United grew stronger.

The Argentine, however, ended up staying at Villa Park. Even with him around, Villa’s recruitment team has stayed alert. They are working on a long-term plan to find his successor. Their search has stretched across Europe and beyond.

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It has brought new names into the mix. While the club plans to approach Galatasaray in the winter for Wilfried Singo, and Aston Villa target Alexis Saelemaekers looks set to stay at AC Milan, their goalkeeping plans have taken a new shape. According to Africa Foot, the latest talent catching their eye is Moroccan prospect Yanis Benchaouch.

Aston Villa want to sign Yanis Benchaouch

Benchaouch plays for AS Monaco, where his steady rise through the academy has impressed many scouts. The 19-year-old goalkeeper has built a reputation with strong performances for Morocco’s under-20 side. He stood out especially during the U-20 World Cup. Yanis’ quick reactions, calmness under pressure, and control in the box have made him one of the most exciting young goalkeepers in African football.

Although Benchaouch has yet to play for Monaco’s first team, he did appear in their Champions League squad this season. That shows the club’s growing faith in him. Villa see him as a young project, and they believe he can develop within their system before taking the No.1 spot in the future. As Martinez’s situation remains unclear, the Premier League side aims to balance the present with the future. Benchaouch now stands at the centre of that plan.

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The promise and the possibility

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 28: Unai Emery, Manager of Aston Villa, reacts during the Premier League match between Aston Villa and Fulham at Villa Park on September 28, 2025 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Benchaouch’s story offers both promise and caution. His agility and sharp reflexes define his game. The 19-year-old’s leadership and command of his area show rare maturity for his age. Still, he lacks experience at the senior level, and that remains a hurdle.

His progress through Monaco’s academy has been steady. Yet Yanis’ injury during the semi-final of the 2025 U-20 World Cup raised some doubts about his durability. Villa reportedly watched him closely during that tournament. They should view him as a prospect for the future rather than an immediate starter.

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Whether the Lions make a move for the Moroccan will depend on how they see Martinez’s role beyond this season. If the Argentine eventually leaves, Benchaouch could become their next big project. He has the skills and mindset to grow into a Premier League regular.

In our view, Aston Villa’s interest in Benchaouch makes sense. Building ties with young players before they reach their prime is a smart move. This approach is especially wise in key positions like a goalkeeper. If Villa manage to sign him while keeping Martinez for another year, they could mix experience with potential. That balance would strengthen their setup for the future.