Aston Villa are in pole position to land a very highly rated young player, according to a recent report.
Unai Emery’s side have been very active in the summer transfer window having already signed Lewis Dobbin, Enzo Barrenechea, Samuel Iling-Junior, Ross Barkley and Ian Maatsen.
Though, they aren’t resting on their laurels as they prepare for a gruelling fixture list with Champions League football to contend with.
Villa are thought to be in pole position to sign a talented 2004-born player.
Aston Villa in pole position to sign Brajan Gruda
According to Sport BILD, Aston Villa are thought to be leading the race to sign Mainz attacker Brajan Gruda.
The 20-year-old, who can operate as a right-winger and centrally, netted four times whilst laying on three assists last term.
Gruda is also attracting interest from Newcastle United, Liverpool, Bayern Munich, RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen – so competition for his signature is rife.
Despite that, Villa seem to be out in front as they can offer the talented left-footer more playing time at senior level.
Brajan Gruda statistics
Gruda is considered ‘one of the best’ prospects on the planet, per Forbes, and it’s easy to see why when you take a look at his FBref statistics.
The Germany youth international ranks in the top 10 per cent for progressive carries per 90 compared to his positional peers across Europe, evincing his terrific dribbling ability.
Further, he sits in the top two per cent for successful take-ons, only amplifying that notion.
If Villa do meet his £43m asking price, they’d be getting a raw but supremely talented winger who’s very direct.
If Emery can polish his output in front of goal, his price tag will soon look like a bargain.