Aston Villa are looking for the next generation of elite talent, with highly-rated teenage winger Ibrahim Mbaye reportedly their top target, with a potential move to Paris coming soon.
The 18-year-old made his breakthrough with PSG last season, appearing in 28 games in all competitions, scoring three goals and providing two assists.
However, only a handful of such appearances were made in the first place, with Luis Enrique often using him as an impactful substitute behind an established attack line that included Ousmane Dembele, Juvica Kvaratschelia, Bradley Barcola, Desiree Douye and Lee Gang-in.
Despite showing glimpses of his huge potential, Mbaye is finding it increasingly difficult to force his way into PSG’s strongest XI.
After returning from international duty earlier this year, the teenager has fallen down the pecking order as competition for spots has become even more limited and competition for spots has become even more limited.
The lack of regular football naturally raises questions about whether staying in Paris is the best option for his development.
According to Foot Mercato editor Sébastien Denis, Mbaye is currently seriously considering a move from the French champions.
Aston Villa sign Ibrahim Mbaye ahead of Tottenham in pole position
“Mbaye no longer wants to settle for a bit role in Paris,” Denis reported, adding that while “his inner circle is trying to dissuade him from leaving,” he is frustrated by his limited opportunities.
His update also revealed that while “Tottenham are attracted to his profile”, Aston Villa are currently leading the race.
Football Fancast Verdict | |
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reliability | Denis established himself as one of France’s better-connected transfer journalists through his role as editor-in-chief of Foote Mercato. He regularly published articles on Ligue 1 clubs and emerging talent, with many exclusive articles later confirmed elsewhere. Although Futto Mercato is considered more volatile than the leading transfer media, Denis is generally regarded as one of the more reliable reporters, especially when it comes to transfer news within France. |
finances | Financially, Villa would have to make a big commitment to sign Mbaye. According to reports, PSG may look for a workaround £35m for the teenager despite limited starting appearances. His salary is still relatively modest at this stage of his career, and with the transfer fee making up the bulk of the investment, it’s more of a long-term bet on his outstanding potential than an instant star. |
insight | Mbaye came through PSG’s academy and quickly established himself as one of the club’s outstanding young prospects. Comfortable on the front lines, he progressed rapidly through the age groups, making his senior debut as a teenager. He has also represented France at youth level and has been praised for his speed, direct dribbling and confidence in one-on-one situations. |
impact | Mbaye will add another explosive option to Villa’s attack, bringing pace, direct dribbling and versatility. Under Emery, he was able to develop without the pressure of becoming a regular starter right away, while providing real competition for a place in the wide and giving Villa another high-level attacking talent for the future. |
From Villa’s perspective, that development would make perfect sense.
Aston Villa should jump at the chance to sign Ibrahim Mbaye
Unai Emery has built a reputation for developing young players while competing at the highest level, and Villa could also offer something that PSG cannot currently guarantee – a clearer path to regular first-team football.
Competition will remain fierce at Villa Park, but Mbaye won’t be playing against arguably the most formidable group of wide forwards in European football every week.
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Technically speaking, the teenager seems to fit Emery’s style well.
Comfortable playing on either flank, Mbaye prefers to attack defenders directly, carries the ball confidently over long distances and has the acceleration to stretch the defensive line.
He also works hard even when not in possession, a trait that will appeal to Emery’s demanding tactical approach.
Of course, signing such a young player comes with risks. Mbaye is still inexperienced at the top level and is still developing the consistency expected of a regular starter.
However, his ceiling is very high and PSG’s reluctance to lose him reflects how highly he is valued within the club.
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He was handed his nomination by manager Didier Deschamps this summer.
