Aston Villa have set out to sign a new forward, with manager Unai Emery known to be a big fan, but there could be competition from Newcastle United.
The Villans are looking to strengthen their attack, despite Nicolas Jackson making a flying start to life at the club, picking up eight goals in 13 matches across all competitions this season, the highest number in the squad.
Jackson has been on the scoresheet twice in the Champions League, but failed to make the desired impact against FC Barcelona on Tuesday night, with Villa falling to a 3-0 defeat at the Camp Nou.
It was a quiet night for the 25-year-old, who recorded an xG of just 0.05, and failed to get a shot on target throughout the match, prior to being replaced by Tammy Abraham on the 77-minute mark.
However, the Senegal international has scored 50% of his side’s Premier League goals this season, with not many other players contributing, which suggests a new forward may be needed during the January transfer window.
Ranking | Aston Villa’s Premier League scorers | Goals |
1. | Nicolas Jackson | 5 |
2. | Johan Manzambi | 2 |
3. | Alysson | 1 |
3. | Emiliano Buendia | 1 |
3. | John McGinn | 1 |
Aston Villa enter contention to sign Alex Baena
Aston Villa are now interested in signing Atletico Madrid star Alex Baena, in light of the left-winger’s impressive performances in La Liga this season, but there could be fierce competition in the race for his signature, reports TeamTALK.
Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Manchester City and Newcastle United are also named as potential suitors for the Spaniard, although it could be difficult to get a deal done during the January transfer window, as Atletico are very hesitant to sanction a departure.
A deal may be more plausible next summer, but it will be a costly operation, as the Spanish side are expected to hold out for around £67m. For reference, Jackson is currently the Villans’ record signing, with the former Chelsea man joining for £65m in the summer.
Baena, who was lauded as “tremendous” by Spain manager Luis de la Fuente, would be expensive, Emery may be delighted to get a deal done, having worked with him during his time as Villarreal manager.
Speaking about the Spain international, the Villa boss said: “His progression is on track, and he’s an intelligent and dedicated young man. He’s a good role model, like Yeremy, Morlanes, Cuenca. They make it difficult for me to build a team.”
Since then, the 25-year-old has become a key player for Atletico, amassing a combined nine goals and assists in all competitions this season, which is one more than Jackson, who has chipped in with eight.
With Alejandro Garnacho failing to make an impact, featuring for just 34 minutes in the Premier League this season, Villa could do with bringing in an upgrade, and Baena could be a real staetement signing.
Source: www.footballfancast.com
