According to reports from Italy, Aston Villa is keeping an eye on a Serie A revelation after their January bid was rejected, as Unai Emery tries to bolster his team even more following an incredible start to the season,
Outstanding Emery aiming for success in Europe
When Aston Villa revealed last season that they had signed veteran trophy winner Unai Emery, it looked like a huge coup, and it has shown to be just that. Since taking over, the former manager of Arsenal, PSG, and Villareal has witnessed a dramatic change in the Villa Park team’s fortunes; now, they are only five points behind league leaders Liverpool in fourth place in the Premier League.
Despite having lost their past five games and losing to Chelsea in the FA Cup, the Villans are still in a great position to finish the season with a European trophy—the Europa Conference League—and make the campaign unforgettable.In an effort to increase their prospects of success, the Midlands team became one of just nine Premier League teams to make a permanent transfer during the January window when they acquired the talented young player Morgan Rodgers from Middlesbrough for an estimated £8 million, with the possibility of a £15 million buyout.
They also signed Brazilian fullback Lino Sousa from Arsenal, but with Alex Moreno’s strong play and Lucas Digne’s ongoing assistance, it’s unlikely that the fullback will play a major role in the first squad this year.
According to sources originating from Italy, Emery would have spent more money if he had his way. The Spanish coach was eager to recruit Raoul Bellanova of Torino in January. NSWE’s bid was rejected because of the €20 million (£17 million) asking price.
However, Tutto Mercato reports that the Villans are still interested in making a summer transfer for one of the breakout stars in the Italian top flight, so the interest in the Italian has not diminished. They will, however, have fierce competition for the 23-year-old as many teams are rumored to be interested in adding the full-back to their roster.
Given his role as Torino’s wing-back, it is clear how he would fit into Unai Emery’s formation. Due to Matty Cash’s apparent decline in the Spaniard’s hierarchy following a stellar season opener, he is now compelled to start Ezri Konsa at full-back, with John McGinn ahead of him.
Bellanova would provide Villa another option on the right side of the pitch and be able to play in either of those positions. He has already contributed three assists this season, demonstrating his ability to deliver a game-winning pass when needed.
Even though the 23-year-old only moved to Turin in the summer, the Italians might profit handsomely from a trade at the rumored asking price, having already spent €7 million (£6 million) on him last year. Therefore, should an offer be made, they could cash in on the player.
