Aston Villa hone in on deal for striker who Roy Keane called ‘outstanding’ as talks now finalised
Aston Villa’s reported striker targets have caused lots of confusion over the last couple of days.
Unai Emery is eager to land a new centre-forward this window, with a particular need for Ollie Watkins to be pushed for his starting spot.
The Villans have seen great success in the Premier League so far this campaign, but may need an extra boost of firepower to help them achieve their goals.
Villa have been interested in a move for Tammy Abraham, with the striker heavily linked for a return to B6 after his loan stay six years ago.
But further talks of Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta and Fenerbahce’s Youssef En-Nesyri were thought to have complicated things.
Jean-Philippe Mateta and Youssef En-Nesyri are Aston Villa’s backup plans
Mateta wants to leave Crystal Palace in the January market, which comes shortly after the news that the Eagles’ manager, Oliver Glasner, could also depart after speaking out against club officials.
En-Nesyri could also make a move to Villa Park, with both the Villans and Everton monitoring the number nine, who has been in goal-scoring form in Turkey.
- En-Nesyri has scored seven league goals for Fenerbahce this season
- He averages 0.66 goals per 90 in the Super Lig this campaign
- The 28-year-old has scored 38 times for the Turkish side in 77 games
As it stands, Villa’s main target is Abraham. That’s according to Fabrizio Romano on Thursday, who reported that Mateta and En-Nesyri are both backup plans for Roberto Olabe.
The ex-Villa striker desires a return to Villa Park this month and quickly reached an agreement to sign, despite being on loan at Besiktas.
Villa are currently in the process of finalising a deal with Roma, his parent club, and Besiktas, with a fee in excess of £10million most likely having to be agreed.
Roy Keane loves Tammy Abraham
Villa are still battling Profit and Sustainability Rules this window, and the signing of Abraham may raise eyebrows.
The forward is reportedly on £100,000 per week and a £10m fee will also have a hit on Villa’s finances.
But, considering what Roy Keane said about the talisman when he scored his first goal for England, Aston Villa may be doing what’s right for Emery.
Keane said, as quoted by Chelsea News in 2019: “He’s outstanding. He’s gone out on loan, had to bide his time, and the key for any young player when you get an opportunity at a big club or an international, you’ve got to take it. He’s taken it. All credit to him.”
It’s now the waiting game for Emery and Co. with days and time ticking by this transfer window.
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