USA midfielder Weston McKennie against England
Aston Villa have intensified contacts over a potential move for Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie. Â Â
The Lowdown: McKennie speculation
Villa are yet to add to their midfield ranks this month, with Unai Emery signing defender Alex Moreno and forward Jhon Duran.
A new midfielder appears to be on the agenda, though, with the Villa boss after three more additions before Tuesday’s deadline. McKennie was reportedly offered to those at Bodymoor Heath earlier this month, with the USA international also heavily linked with Leeds United.
The Latest: Transfer update
Sports Witness relayed a transfer update from Calciomercato regarding McKennie. They said that in the last few hours, Villa, Leeds and Arsenal have all intensified contacts with the Serie A side for the 24-year-old, with Juventus wanting no less than €30m-€35m.
The report also adds that Juventus could be open to letting McKennie leave on loan which includes an obligation to buy.
The Verdict: Versatile…
It looks as if Villa may still be in the race to sign McKennie, who would offer plenty of versatility to Emery’s squad. He has played in eight different positions during his career ranging from a centre-back to a centre-forward.
Primarily a central midfielder, McKennie has been described as a ‘monster’ in the air by football writer Wes Tucker and a ‘pressing machine’ by USMNT journalist Chris Smith.
He boasts experience in the Champions League and is valued at €21m by Transfermarkt, so a fee above that figure could be enough to bring him to the Midlands ahead of two Premier League rivals, where he could be a strong option in a number of areas under Emery.
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