Aston Villa are now stepping up their efforts to sign an “incredible” Brazilian, who is set to cost €35m (£30m), according to a report.
Villa eyeing midfielder amid Chelsea's interest in Rogers
Rather than strengthening his squad with new signings, one of Unai Emery’s most important tasks this summer will be to keep hold of his star players, with the likes of Emiliano Martinez, Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers all attracting major interest.
In fact, such is Chelsea’s level of interest in Rogers, they have now submitted a bid for the attacking midfielder, with Nicolas Jackson and Tosin Adarabioyo reportedly being used as makeweights.
The Villans are determined to keep hold of Rogers, however, and they should be in a strong position to keep hold of the 23-year-old, given that he remains under contract until the summer of 2030.
John McGinn has also been attracting attention from elsewhere, with Everton emerging as potential suitors for the Villa captain, but once again Emery is very reluctant to sanction a departure, given the Scot’s importance to his side.
That said, amid interest in both Rogers and McGinn, Aston Villa have now set their sights on a new midfielder, and a report from Fanatik has revealed they are now stepping up their efforts to sign Galatasaray’s Gabriel Sara.
Emery’s side are said to be making a ‘concerted effort’ to get a deal for Sara over the line, but they will have to spend €35m (£30m) to tempt his current employers into a sale, with Galatasaray unwilling to even consider offers below that figure.
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Leeds United are also in the race for the Brazilian’s signature, off the back of an impressive 2024-25 campaign, but Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk strongly believes he will remain at the Turkish club.
"Incredible" Sara could be versatile option for Emery
With Rogers’ future up in the air, it could be important for Emery to bring in a midfielder capable of making a real impact on the front foot, and the former Norwich City man, described as “incredible” and Premier League-ready by U23 scout Antonio Mango, certainly fits the bill in that regard.
During the 2023-24 Championship campaign, the maestro amassed 13 goals and 12 assists in 46 games for the Canaries, while he also picked up 11 goal contributions for Galatasaray during his debut campaign in Turkey.
The 26-year-old is also capable of playing in a deeper role, however, catching the eye with both his dribbling ability and some of his defensive showings over the past year.
Statistic
Average per 90
Progressive carries
2.66 (94th percentile)
Successful take-ons
1.27 (91st percentile)
Interceptions
1.27 (74th percentile)
Blocks
1.74 (90th percentile)
Sara is clearly a very well-rounded midfielder, who could make a real impact at Villa Park, so it may be worth forking out the £30m asking price.