Houssem Aouar 'ticks a lot of boxes' at Aston Villa ahead of a potential deadline day move, according to an update from journalist Pete O'Rourke.
The Lowdown: Aouar linked with late Villa move
The 24-year-old was linked with a transfer to Villa Park on Tuesday afternoon, as Unai Emery eyes up some potential last-minute business.
Aouar has become one of Lyon's most influential players in recent years, registering 76 goal contributions (41 goals and 35 assists) in 224 appearances.
That being said, the Frenchman has scored only once in six Ligue 1 starts this season, suggesting he may be eyeing up a fresh challenge with his contract ticking down towards a summer 2023 conclusion.
The Latest: O'Rourke reacts
Reacting to the move on Give Me Sport, O'Rourke explained why he thinks Aouar joining Villa would suit all parties:
"Aston Villa have made a late move for the Lyon midfielder. Unai Emery is looking to add to his attacking options at Villa and has been looking for a creative midfielder.
"Houssem Aouar does tick a lot of boxes. He’s coming to the end of his contract at Lyon as well so it’ll be a relatively cheap fee in that respect."
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The Verdict: Could be a game-changer
Aouar hasn't always necessarily been the most trusted player, explaining why he has only won one cap for France, despite possessing the talent that has seen Pep Guardiola call him 'incredible'.
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The Lyon star is someone who can produce match-changing moments of class in midfield though, sitting in the 93rd percentile for shot creating actions by midfielders, and he could provide Emery with something different in the middle of the park.
At 24, Aouar is still a young player, despite his experience, and snapping him up at the 11th hour is a risk worth taking, especially as his contract running down this summer would allow Villa to sign him on the cheap.