Aston Villa Academy: Finn Azaz set for fresh contract offer after pair of stunning loan spells
Finn Azaz is the Aston Villa loanee that not too many supporters are talking about.
The 22-year-old attacking midfielder is entering the last six months of his contract at B6, but after drawing rave reviews at high-flying Plymouth Argyle in recent months, Villa bosses are now pondering a fresh contract extension.
The Athletic’s Aston Villa reporter Gregg Evans stated: “Finn Azaz (out with an ankle injury) is heading into the final months of his Aston Villa contract but an extension is likely.
“Six goals and three assists in 18 games for Plymouth Argyle has significantly boosted his profile.”
After arriving from West Brom’s academy in the summer of 2021, the youngster was immediately loaned out to Newport County in League 2 where he found his feet with alarming ease.
The Villa attacker scored six goals and six assists in 25 starts at Rodney Parade, including an impressive run of three goals in five games at the conclusion of the campaign.
“Eventually he will be Premier League quality, I am sure,” admitted Newport manager James Rowberry after the Villa starlet netted the winner in the dying seconds of his side’s 2-1 win over Carlisle United. [Birmingham Mail]
And although the Exiles failed to secure the much-desired promotion spot, the Villa ace spearheaded their attack with potent accuracy, playing and creating chances galore from the midfield.
His performances left their mark, with Azaz scooping the League Two Young Player of the Year award as well as being named in League Two Team of the Season.
The midfielder has continued to impress this season at Plymouth Argyle after Villa’s hierarchy decided further time developing at lower-league standard was required for the gifted youngster.
Giving the 6ft 1in Londoner the opportunity of a season-long loan at the League One outfit has proven a stroke of genius, as he continues to improve physically, while his defensive game has developed tenfold.
Frustratingly the Plymouth loanee has fallen foul to a niggling right ankle injury over the last month and is not expected to be back until late January.
Despite the setback, it wouldn’t come as a surprise to see several Championship clubs attempt to make a move on Azaz in the summer, but Villa might just want to keep him on at the club.
He has certainly warranted a crack under Unai Emery at Bodymoor Heath, and the club seem ready to reward his hard work and perseverance with a juicy new contract.
In other news, Ollie Watkins must rediscover his clinical edge under Unai Emery to become the complete striker.