Aston Villa have reportedly been 'seduced' by the prospect of signing Bordeaux striker Sekou Mara, according to Foot Mercato (via Sport Witness). 

The lowdown: Rise to stardom

Born in Paris, Mara was part of the youth system at French powerhouses Paris Saint-Germain before arriving at Bordeaux in 2017.

The 19-year-old France youth international has since developed at a rapid rate and has already attracted the attention of fellow French Ligue 1 clubs AS Monaco and Lyon as well as strong interest from Southampton following an impressive breakout season.

Now as Villa boss Steven Gerrard attempts to bolster the attacking ranks in the Midlands, a fresh claim has emerged suggesting Mara is on the radar...

The latest: 'Seduced'

As per Foot Mercato, translated by SW, Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Leeds United are all interested in the ten-cap France Under 21 starlet.

It's claimed that the interest from mega-rich Newcastle is 'very concrete' whilst Leeds and the Villans have both been 'seduced' by Mara in this transfer window.

The report also states that the French youngster - who was labelled a 'brilliant young talent' by journalist Zach Lowy -  is valued at around €10million (£8.5million) by the French outfit, who find themselves in financial turmoil having been relegated to the French third tier due to off-field issues.

Johan Lange may need to act fast however if the Villans wish to turn their interest into a serious move, with Southampton edging closer to completing the signing.

The verdict: Get it done?

At the mooted price, signing Mara represents a wholly viable option for Villa ownership group NSWE as they and Lange attempt to bolster the attacking ranks at Gerrard's disposal ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.

As things stand, out of favour Brazilian striker Wesley is expected to secure a loan deal to join Levante, leaving only Ollie Watkins and Danny Ings as experienced natural frontmen with previously want-away Keinan Davis and pre-season sensation Cameron Archer acting as understudies.

Albeit Mara himself remains inexperienced at an elite level, the 11 direct goal contributions from 36 appearances across all competitions, earning an average 6.77 Sofascore rating in the French top flight, shows early signs of an ability to make an impact on the big stage.

Possessing hugely impressive long-range shooting and finishing attributes, the teenager shares similar stylistic traits to such renowned target men as Olivier Giroud, Gianluca Scamacca and Jonathan David (FBRef), and should be regarded as a smart target should Lange be able to entice Mara to Villa Park ahead of their domestic rivals.