Aston Villa could reportedly look to pip Southampton to a late move for SC Braga forward Vitinha.

The Lowdown: Vitinha profiled

Vitinha is 22 years of age and is primarily a centre-forward but can also play in a deeper second-striker role. Valued at a career-high €15m by Transfermarkt, Vitinha has progressed through Braga’s academy and has scored 28 goals in 67 senior appearances for the Portuguese side.

The forward, labelled as ‘prolific’ by Football Talent Scout Jacek Kulig, signed a new contract until 2027 just last year, but it looks as if a move to the Premier League could be on the cards.

The Latest: Transfer update

Sports Witness relayed an update from Foot Mercato in the last few hours regarding Vitinha.

They claimed that Southampton are ready to activate the player’s €30m release clause but add that Villa are ‘also in the game’ for the striker and the fee is 'affordable' for the Villans.

The Verdict: One to watch?

Unai Emery has wanted Villa chiefs to sign another striker, a winger and a midfielder after bringing in defender Alex Moreno and teenager Jhon Duran earlier this month, but as we know, that has yet to materialise, with Duran and Ollie Watkins the only centre-forward options after parting ways with Danny Ings.

Therefore, signing someone like Vitinha, who is going from strength to strength and has four goals in five Europa League games this season, could be a smart move.

It may come at a relatively big cost, but with NSWE promising Emery a ‘huge’ budget at Villa Park, you’d like to think the funds are there, possibly making this one to watch in the coming hours.