Aston Villa are closing in on a new contract for one of Unai Emery’s most trusted attacking players after the Argentine fought his way back into the first-team picture.

The midfielder’s future looked uncertain not so long ago, with Villa considering moving him on as he struggled to establish himself in Emery’s plans.

However, a remarkable resurgence has changed the situation, and the club are now keen to secure his long-term future at Villa Park.

Emiliano Buendia Nears New Aston Villa Contract

According to the Daily Mail, Emiliano Buendia is close to agreeing a new contract with Aston Villa following positive progress in negotiations.

The proposed agreement is understood to run until the end of the 2028-29 season, representing a significant show of faith in the 29-year-old after he rebuilt his reputation under Emery.

Buendia’s existing deal is due to expire at the end of the current campaign, and Villa are keen to avoid allowing his contract situation to become a problem. While the club have had an option to extend his previous terms, securing a fresh agreement would provide greater clarity over his future.

The Argentine’s revival has been particularly impressive given how far he had fallen down the pecking order. During the summer of 2025, Villa were prepared to consider moving him on, with the player even being offered to city rivals Birmingham City.

Rather than give up on his Villa career, Buendia — recently described as “important” by Emery — stayed and worked to regain Emery’s trust.

His determination has paid off. He played a crucial role in Villa’s Europa League triumph last season, scoring in the final against Freiburg as the club secured their first major trophy since 1996.

He has carried that form into the current campaign, producing another memorable moment with a spectacular strike during Villa’s 3-2 victory over Tottenham. Remarkably, it was his third goal in as many appearances at Spurs’ stadium.

Emery has previously praised the midfielder’s determination to recover his best form, highlighting the work he put in to earn another opportunity at Villa Park.

The manager’s faith has been rewarded, with Buendia becoming an increasingly important attacking option as Villa compete across multiple competitions.

Villa Keen to Reward Buendia’s Resurgence

At 29, Buendia still has plenty to offer, particularly given his creativity, technical ability and experience in Emery’s system.

Keeping him would also provide Villa with valuable attacking depth as they continue to balance their domestic and European commitments.

Although the agreement has not yet been finalised, the positive progress in negotiations suggests both parties are moving towards a solution.

For Buendia, a new contract would cap an impressive personal comeback. For Villa, it would reward a player whose determination has transformed his standing at the club.