Aston Villa are showing serious ambition in the transfer market after reaching an agreement to sign Paris Saint-Germain youngster Ibrahim Mbaye for a deal worth around £47 million.
The 18-year-old winger is expected to undergo a medical before completing the move, giving Unai Emery another exciting attacking option as Villa continue rebuilding their squad.
Mbaye’s arrival is particularly interesting because Liverpool had previously been linked with the highly-rated youngster. Villa have now moved decisively to secure his services, adding another twist to an increasingly aggressive transfer window.
The Senegal international has already gained valuable experience despite his age, making 42 first-team appearances for PSG. His pace, attacking ability and potential have made him one of the more interesting young talents available this summer.
Villa’s move comes shortly after they completed the signing of Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea in a deal that could reach £65 million. That means the club are spending heavily as Emery looks to strengthen an attack that struggled badly in their opening fixture.
The pressure will now be on these new arrivals to deliver.
For Mbaye, however, the move could represent the beginning of a major Premier League journey.
Villa are clearly betting heavily on his potential — and they will hope the gamble pays off.