What happened: Aston Villa have made contact with Flamengo over a move to bring Brazilian right-back Emerson Royal back to the Premier League. Talks are ongoing, with Villa having identified the defender as a potential backup option at right-back behind Matty Cash.

Why it matters: Squad depth at full-back is a recurring need across a long European campaign, and adding an experienced Premier League-tested right-back gives the side A return for Emerson Royal would mark a second spell in English football for the Brazilian after his earlier time in the league.

What to watch: Watch for whether Villa firm up their interest into a formal proposal and how Flamengo respond to the approach. The state of negotiations will determine if the move advances beyond initial contact.