Aston Villa in hunt to sign Southampton star, bid worth just under £30m ready
Aston Villa face a squad overhaul this summer as Unai Emery looks to avoid PSR sanctions yet again.
Despite the Birmingham outfit being on the verge of Champions League football once again, financial restrictions this summer are thought to be in play.
Villa may have to sell multiple stars to avoid punishment, with Emi Martinez linked to Saudi Arabia.
However, Unai Emery still wants signings, with attacking additions needed at Villa Park.
Aston Villa want Leeds United target Mateus Fernandes
Aston Villa could lose multiple attacking options this summer.
Marcus Rashford’s future is still unclear as he continues to be linked to Barcelona.
On top of this, Ollie Watkins could leave Villa after the striker became unhappy with his playing time.
Therefore, Emery is on the lookout for forward players this summer, with a new attacking midfielder being touted.
According to Alan Nixon (23 May), one player being scouted is Southampton’s Mateus Fernandes.
The 20-year-old has been one of the few bright sparks of the Saints’ season and is believed to have plenty of potential.
| Mateus Fernandes at Southampton | |
| Appearances | 41 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Assists | 5 |
The report states that Villa are “warning development” as they search for an attacking midfielder, but they also have other options.
Southampton values Fernandes at £30 million, with Leeds United in the race for his signature, viewing the Portuguese youngster as their “number one priority”, as they plan to move in on him.
Fernandes a risky signing for Aston Villa
While Fernandes no doubt has potential, he would certainly be a risky signing for Villa.
After the season Southampton have had, there is little evidence to suggest that he could suddenly make the step up to play for a team fighting for the Champions League.
Money is also tight at Villa, therefore, it would be stupid for the Birmingham outfit to splash out £30 million for a player who will likely remain on the bench.
Emery needs players who will threaten the status quo, and unfortunately for Fernandes, he simply does not have the ability to do this.