Aston Villa respond to Lamare Bogarde transfer approaches with PSR twist
Aston Villa have rejected loan bids for Lamare Bogarde from both Sevilla and Blackburn Rovers, according to Sky Sports.
The broadcaster reported in its live blog (23 January, 12:58) that Sevilla had “expressed a wish” to sign the versatile defender, but they were given a flat-out no.
The Spanish side had discussed the possibility of the loan during their talks with Villa over the transfer of centre-back Loic Bade, albeit those discussions have since broken down (Alberto Fernandez).
Unai Emery wants Bogarde to remain a part of his Villans squad and won’t sanction a move for the 21-year-old unless PSR obligations force them to.
Aston Villa need Lamare Bogarde now more than ever
Given Bogarde can cover both right-back and centre-back, as well as slot into midfield if needs be, his versatility is something Emery may well need to call upon in the second half of Villa’s season.
With their talks for Bade breaking down on Wednesday, the Lions suddenly look stretched in defence, having already greenlit the now-completed exit of Diego Carlos to Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce.
As a result, not allowing Bogarde to head to Andalusia could prove a blessing in disguise for Emery, with the Spaniard now short of cover in central defence until an alternative transfer target can be found.
Having often used Ezri Konsa as his stand-in right-back when Matty Cash is unavailable – and therefore Carlos at centre-half – Bogarde now looks to be the next cab off the rank when it comes to deputising.
The youngster may have just four Premier League appearances under his belt in claret and blue, but as Villa face a transfer window without defensive reinforcement, that number could be set to skyrocket.
In other Aston Villa news, a Sky pundit has slammed one Premier League club’s ‘underhand tactics’ in their bid to sign a Villa star.
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