Aston Villa have emerged as frontrunners to sign New York Red Bulls’ Ghanaian sensation Mohammed Sofo, as Unai Emery looks to bolster his attacking options for the 2026 campaign, according to Africafoot.
The 21-year-old, who can operate as a dynamic midfielder or on the right wing, has caught the eye of Villa scouts following a stellar 12 months in Major League Soccer.
It is understood that the Midlands club have already made initial contact with the Red Bulls to discuss a potential deal. However, they may face stiff competition from the Bundesliga, with VfB Stuttgart also reportedly monitoring the youngster’s progress.
Meteoric rise
Sofo’s trajectory in 2025 has been nothing short of remarkable. After beginning the year in the Red Bulls’ reserve set-up—where he averaged a goal a game—he was quickly fast-tracked into the senior squad.
He went on to become a mainstay in the Eastern Conference side, making 27 appearances and contributing four goals. While the Red Bulls endured a frustrating season, finishing 10th in the standings, Sofo’s individual performances as a Black Star in the making provided a rare silver lining for the New York faithful.
Academy pedigree
Sofo is the latest success story to emerge from the prestigious Jean-Marc Guillou Academy network.
Having honed his craft at Guidars in Bamako before moving stateside, his technical proficiency and versatility make him a natural fit for Emery’s tactical system at Villa Park.
Sofo dreams of Europe but remains focused on New York Red Bulls success
Analysis: Calculated gamble?
With a contract running until December 2026 and an additional two-year option held by the New York club, Sofo won’t come cheap.
However, Villa’s recent recruitment strategy has leaned heavily toward high-upside youth. Following the successful integration of Morgan Rogers, the hierarchy at Aston Villa may view Sofo as the next rough diamond capable of making the jump from the Americas to the Premier League.
The deal remains in the early stages, but with European interest cooling on veteran targets, a move for one of MLS’s most “promising exports” signals Villa’s intent to keep their squad’s profile young and hungry.
