Tottenham Hotspur ‘Make Contact’ to Sign £43m Aston Villa Star – Report | OneFootball

Tottenham Lead Quiet Chase for Jacob Ramsey as Villa Hold Firm

In a quietly developing transfer saga, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United have both made initial contact over a potential move for Aston Villa’s talented midfielder Jacob Ramsey, according to an exclusive report by CaughtOffside. Nottingham Forest also remain firmly in the conversation, maintaining long-standing interest in the 24-year-old despite recently tying Morgan Gibbs-White down to a new contract.

Ramsey’s Role Under Emery Raises Questions

Despite being regarded as a key member of the Aston Villa first-team squad, Ramsey has not always been a nailed-on starter under Unai Emery. With a valuation of around £43 million, it is clear that Villa will only entertain serious offers, especially in light of their ongoing need to manage Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

Villa’s price tag may prove a stumbling block. According to CaughtOffside, “Villa asking for as much as £43m to let the 24-year-old English midfielder go” raises eyebrows considering his intermittent starts. Still, Ramsey remains highly regarded within the club and around the league, with homegrown status increasing his value not just in performance terms, but financially. As the report points out, “Ramsey is homegrown so could count as pure profit for Villa if they decide to cash in.”

Player’s Position Not Forcing a Move

Importantly, it appears that Ramsey himself is not pushing for a departure. Sources quoted by CaughtOffside say “Ramsey is also not desperate to leave Villa Park,” which suggests the player’s camp is open to options but not agitating behind the scenes. This may give Villa added leverage in discussions.

Still, Tottenham and West Ham making direct contact signifies serious consideration. Whether it’s to test Villa’s resolve or prepare for late-window manoeuvres, it shows that both London clubs see potential in Ramsey that could elevate their midfield options.

Why Spurs Are Watching Closely

For Spurs, under new manager Thomas Frank, Ramsey represents a highly adaptable midfield asset. He is Premier League proven, carries an eye for a forward pass, and can operate across multiple central roles. As Frank shapes a squad capable of matching his high-intensity philosophy, Ramsey’s profile fits neatly.

With Spurs no longer reliant on continental flair alone and looking to build a robust British core, Ramsey could slot in alongside the likes of James Maddison and Oliver Skipp, offering rotation, depth and attacking drive. However, any potential move hinges on Villa’s willingness to lower their asking price or offer creative terms.

Transfer Watch: One for Deadline Day?

The dynamics around this potential move suggest it could drag on late into the window. As CaughtOffside note, “it’s generally viewed in the industry as one saga that might not be resolved until late on in the transfer window.”

Villa’s financial pressures might force their hand if a strong offer is made in the final days of August, especially as other key players are also being monitored by European clubs. The fact that multiple Premier League clubs are circling gives Ramsey and his representatives some quiet control of the situation, even as formal negotiations have yet to heat up.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Tottenham Hotspur fan’s perspective, the growing interest in Jacob Ramsey is an intriguing development. Under Thomas Frank, we’re seeing a shift in Spurs’ recruitment style: tactically intelligent players with Premier League experience, versatility and athleticism.

Ramsey ticks every box. He has been part of a Villa side that has punched well above its weight, competing in Europe and thriving under Emery’s structured system. At 24, his best years are ahead of him, and he’s the type of player who doesn’t require extensive adaptation time. He’d be an instant option off the bench or even start in a three-man midfield.

The key question is value. £43 million feels steep for someone who hasn’t cemented himself as an automatic starter. Yet, if Spurs can negotiate that down or structure a deal smartly with add-ons and incentives, it becomes far more palatable.

It’s also worth noting how well Ramsey’s profile aligns with Frank’s tactical demands. He needs press-resistant midfielders who can transition quickly and contribute in both boxes. Ramsey brings that blend of technique and power, with room to grow. If the deal comes off, this could be a shrewd piece of business that doesn’t just strengthen the squad, but future-proofs it.

Let’s hope Levy doesn’t wait too long to make the first proper move.