Aston Villa to insert buy-back clause in Finn Azaz Middlesbrough transfer as Villa Park exit edges closer

We’re delighted to welcome Aston Villa podcaster Ty Bracey as our exclusive Aston Villa columnist each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at the club…

Aston Villa are likely to insert a buy-back clause in the deal to sell Finn Azaz to Middlesbrough, according to Ty Bracey.

The Athletic reported on its website on Wednesday (3 January) that the attacking midfielder is set to sign for the Championship club for £2.5million after he was recalled from his loan spell with Plymouth Argyle.

The 23-year-old, who signed for Villa from West Brom in 2021, could be in line to face Unai Emery's side in the FA Cup clash between the two sides at the Riverside Stadium on Saturday (6 January).

Bracey believes the former Republic of Ireland U-21 international would be a "great addition" to the Boro side as he is capable of playing at the top end of the second tier.

Speaking exclusively to Villa News, Bracey said: “It’s a bargain. I think he’s out of contract, so if we can get a bit of money towards FFP, I think it’s great.

"But no doubt there will probably be a buy-back clause included in the deal as usual. That seems to be the common trend of what we’re doing with our youth players at the moment.

"I think he’s capable of playing at that level. I think it’ll be a good piece of business for Middlesbrough coming up to the halfway point of the season. I think they need a bit of spice in their team.

"I think he’ll be a great addition and I think he’s capable of playing in the higher levels of the Championship.” 

In other Aston Villa news, a broadcaster has revealed a “money-grabbing” situation Villa would be 100 per cent against.