Report: Aston Villa weighing up move to sign talented Brazilian attacker from La Liga side this summer
Aston Villa are eyeing a move for Luiz Henrique as Real Sociedad could ponder a huge sale of the Brazilian winger.
According to AS, Aston Villa are vying for Luiz Henrique ahead of the summer. The Real Betis winger could bring in some much-needed funds if he leaves, although the final price tag could be much lower than his current 100 million release clause.
Real Betis hope to achieve financial balance after yet another tumultuous year balancing their books. They want to remain active in the window but may have to make sales to raise funds for new players. They do not have massive stars that guarantee them income, which puts the focus on a few existing stars.
Guido Rodriguez was long perceived as Betis’ most valued asset, but with the growing interest in Luiz Henrique, that tag could change. The €100 million-rated Brazilian winger could leave the Spanish side if the club receives a big offer in the summer.
There were mentions of many clubs tracking the €100 million-rated Brazilian winger back in January, but the real suitors could come in the summer. Aston Villa seems interested in recruiting the winger, but they must negotiate the price down.
A return of three goals and seven assists in 43 appearances in all competitions does not warrant paying up his release clause. Yet, Unai Emery might have seen a player whom he can develop into a major star. The Basque coach has a good track record with wide players, first with Villarreal and now with Aston Villa.
He may see Henrique as someone who could add some quality depth in the wide position, particularly considering the injury history of Leon Bailey. Villa have been searching for a right winger for some time and went close to signing Marco Asensio before he joined PSG on a free transfer.
They are also linked with an ambitious move for Joao Felix, but without Champions League football, it may prove difficult to lure the Portuguese star. They may have to pivot from some high-profile targets and bring in players willing to come for the project.
Emery might test his resolve with Henrique and push the club to make a bid for the Brazilian winger. Betis would like a good deal in return, but Villa will likely look for a good price.
Henrique might take up the challenge of playing in the Premier League. He might also want to play under Emery and get the taste of a different, more competitive football. However, Villa must act fast in securing the winger, as other clubs might also see the potential and chase the Brazilian winger.
