In a move that would instantly boost their attacking options, Aston Villa now reportedly want to sign a Premier League rival who put on an impressive performance in front of Unai Emery earlier this season.
Aston Villa's summer plans taking shape amid PSR concerns
It’s a big summer for the Villans. Even if they don’t have Champions League football to offer, those in the Midlands must maintain the level of Unai Emery’s side and they must do so whilst complying with PSR rules. That’s what may hold them back, however. According to recent reports, Aston Villa will likely have to sell before buying this summer if they want to avoid breaking any profit and sustainability rules.
To that end, the rumours have already been coming thick and fast over just who Aston Villa could sell this summer to avoid any potential sanctions. Among those mentioned is Morgan Rogers. The talented midfielder has enjoyed an excellent season in the Midlands, attracting plenty of interest as a result, and his sale would certainly ease Villa’s concerns.
Given just how impressive he’s been this season, though, it seems unlikely that Villa will be desperate to part ways with Rogers to a Champions League rival such as Chelsea this summer.
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However, such a sale would at least allow sporting director Monchi to welcome a number of fresh faces and potentially get permanent deals over the line for Marco Asensio and Marcus Rashford.
Those in the Midlands club are seemingly in for a busy summer on all fronts, with new targets beginning to emerge and star players finding themselves on the radar of several rival clubs.
Aston Villa eyeing "unbelievable" Joao Pedro
According to Caught Offside, Aston Villa now want to sign Joao Pedro from Brighton & Hove Albion, who are set to demand as much as €60m (£51m) to sell the Brazilian this summer. The forward hasn’t quite been as consistent as last season, but that hasn’t stopped him from leaving his mark in the Premier League, with 10 goals and six assists to his name.
Emery should already be more than familiar with the 23-year-old’s quality too, after getting a first-hand glimpse when Pedro created both of Brighton’s goals in a dramatic 2-2 draw at Villa Park earlier this season.
Brighton’s asking price should come as little surprise, either. Pedro is clearly rated highly at The Amex and Fabian Hurzeler’s praise has reflected that this season. The Seagulls boss told reporters back in November when asked about his forward after a 2-1 win over Bournemouth: “In possession he is unbelievable. He makes the difference for us today.
“It’s also very important to see how he works against the ball. He invests a lot out of possession. He does a lot of work in the shadow and the work that is unseen. That’s why it is very good to have him as a leader on the pitch.”