It is not the first time Villa have tried to re-sign Abraham – they remained interested in him and were at the table when the striker previously moved.
However, in 2021, when Abraham opted to join Roma, Villa were not the club they have since been transformed into by Emery.
Abraham also turned down Arsenal on that occasion, as he viewed Roma’s project under Mourinho as the ideal platform to progress – and the forward’s time in Serie A should be viewed as a success.
One of the key factors behind his decision to return to the Premier League is a desire for an England recall, with this summer’s World Cup looming.
Abraham has not played for his country since starting against Italy in the Nations League in 2022 – and would have remained on the periphery if he stayed in Turkey.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has rediscovered his form in the Premier League for Leeds -so if Abraham can hit the ground running under Emery it could put him back in the selection conversation, almost four years since his last cap.
Abraham also has two young children and the lure to return home for personal reasons was strong.
Chelsea had a buy-back option, but with the change of ownership at Stamford Bridge that was never on the cards.
He has taken a wage cut to join Villa, underlining his commitment, and having won the Champions League and Conference League he has the chance to complete a European hat-trick in the Europa League with his new club this season.
The return to Villa Park is seen as perfect timing, even if it has come sooner than expected and just six months into a spell at Besiktas.
But Emery’s plan and vision for the striker convinced him – not that he needed much persuading.
Abraham enjoyed his time in Turkey but the opportunity to return to the Premier League – and Villa – was ultimately too good to refuse.
