According to Turkish reports carried by NTV, Villa had a delegation at Monday’s Istanbul derby against Galatasaray, where Aydın provided the assist for İrfan Can Kahveci in Fenerbahçe’s 2-1 defeat.
The visit follows earlier approaches from Unai Emery’s club. Villa had already asked Fenerbahçe about the conditions for signing the Turkey international and subsequently contacted his representative, suggesting their interest has moved beyond preliminary scouting.
Aydın, 25, joined Fenerbahçe from Alanyaspor in 2024 but has largely operated as a supporting option. He has recorded 10 goals and 15 assists in 85 appearances for the Istanbul club, accumulating 3,807 minutes on the pitch.
His contribution this season stands at two goals and three assists in 16 appearances, totalling 688 minutes. He also played the full match when Fenerbahçe suffered a 6-0 Champions League defeat against Villa earlier this month, although he did not register a goal or assist in that game.
Aston Villa’s attention has continued despite Aydın’s limited role at Fenerbahçe. His performance against Galatasaray, including the assist for Kahveci’s goal, gave the visiting delegation another opportunity to assess him in a high-profile fixture.
The latest report follows earlier coverage of Villa’s enquiries about a possible January move. The club have now made contact with both Fenerbahçe and the player’s agent, while the trip to Istanbul indicates that they want to evaluate the winger in person before deciding whether to proceed.
An offer could follow in January, but there is no confirmed fee and no indication yet of how Fenerbahçe would respond to a formal approach.
Villa may face competition from Fenerbahçe themselves. ABC Gazetesi reports that club president Aziz Yıldırım has instructed officials to begin the process of negotiating a new deal after becoming aware of the growing interest in Aydın.
The winger is currently contracted until 2028, and the Turkish club are reportedly planning to offer improved terms. His agent has been invited to a meeting, although the details of any proposed extension have not yet emerged.
Transfermarkt values Aydın at €9 million, but that figure should not be treated as an indication of Fenerbahçe’s asking price. The club have not disclosed what they would demand to sell him.
A new contract could strengthen Fenerbahçe’s position in any negotiations, but it would not necessarily end Villa’s pursuit. Emery’s side have made several preliminary moves and now have a clearer picture of the player from their latest scouting trip.
For the moment, a January transfer remains a possibility rather than an agreement. Villa’s next step will depend on whether they decide to make a formal offer and whether Fenerbahçe are prepared to negotiate.