AS Roma have opened talks with Aston Villa for winger Anwar El Ghazi, as reported by Football Insider.

The Lowdown: Smith willing to let El Ghazi depart

Reports earlier this month suggested that Dean Smith has green-lighted the exits of El Ghazi and Wesley, with the latter expected to return to Club Brugge on loan.

El Ghazi, described as ‘brilliant’ by pundit Adrian Clarke, was wanted by Jose Mourinho’s side back in July.

Roma were also linked with Douglas Luiz in recent days, but it seems as if they are making their move for El Ghazi.

The Latest: Source shares update

Football Insider, who were informed by an Aston Villa source, shared a story on Thursday morning.

They claimed that preliminary talks have been opened between Roma and Villa over a late transfer for the 26-year-old, with Villa preparing to cash in.

The Verdict: A risk?

El Ghazi has started the season in fine form with three goals and two assists in three starts.

Fellow wingers Trezeguet and Bertrand Traore are sidelined through injury and new signing Leon Bailey also missed the win over Newcastle on their weekend with a hamstring issue.

On that basis, it could be a risk to part ways with El Ghazi so late in the window.

It looks as if Villa are willing to sell the Dutch attacker in the coming days, though, so hopefully, the likes of Trezeguet and Traore can return as soon as possible.

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