Aston Villa are reportedly interested in a deal for Juventus starlet Samuel Iling-Junior, who could be on the move this summer.
The Englishman broke into the Juventus first-team last season, scoring once and providing two assists in 18 appearances, but with the Old Lady now banned from European competition, they could sell some of their assets to raise funds.
The 19-year-old was formerly part of the Chelsea academy, and a return to England may be on the cards.
A report from TuttoMercatoWeb in Italy has claimed that Aston Villa, as well as Everton, are interested in a deal for the wonderkid, and he could be available for transfer this summer as Juventus look to trim their squad.
What could Iling-Junior bring to Aston Villa?
The teenager’s standout attribute is his pace, with Italian expert Michele Neri describing him as “very quick,” and he suits a left-wing role where he stays on the touchline as a left-footer.
He could arrive initially as a squad option, and this may signal an exit for Leon Bailey. The Jamaican has been linked with a move away, and with Moussa Diaby arriving as a right-winger, Iling-Junior could cover on the left alongside Jacob Ramsey.
Whilst he is talented, the Englishman is lacking in end-product and is still very raw in terms of senior experience. Although he could be a useful addition, the price of any deal will determine whether it is one worth pursuing for Unai Emery and Monchi.
Iling-Junior is capable of playing on both sides, and could also provide cover for Diaby, but it seems unlikely that he will be ready to start for Villa in the Premier League.
With Villa set to compete in the Europa Conference League, this could be the ideal chance for Iling-Junior to gain further first-team experience, and potentially break into the Villa Premier League side.
It remains to be seen if Villa will formalise their interest, but he is certainly a player to keep an eye on this summer.
