Aston Villa are monitoring Roma and Italy star, Bryan Cristante ahead of the January transfer window as they look to add depth to their squad.
In spite of a great start to the season, Aston Villa are still looking to reinforce their squad as they look to secure a Champions League finish.
Under Unai Emery, the Villans have been shrewd and ruthless in the transfer market in terms of incomings and outgoings.
With that being said, the main reports coming out of the club are focusing on potential attacking signings with Albert Gudmundsson being the latest.
We have also suggested that Matty Cash needs some competition to come in during the January window but there are no reports of that.
There have been whispers that Leander Dendoncker could be let go due to a lack of game time and as a result, midfield options may be needed.
What has Monchi said about Bryan Cristante?
Cristante has featured for many clubs across his career, with the majority being in Serie A. A stint with Benfica being his only spell outside of Italy.
The midfielder started his career with AC Milan but has gone on to play for Palermo, Pescara, Atalanta and now Roma.
His time in Rome began with a year-long loan spell where he made 44 appearances and scored four goals, despite being a defensive-minded player.
After an impressive first year, the Italian was signed on a permanent basis and has gone on to make 200 appearances since.
Upon his permanent signing, the current President of Football Operations at Aston Villa, Monchi said: “Bryan was perhaps the best midfielder in the league last season. His skills and overall play speak for him. He has a very bright future, not just for Roma but for the Italian national team, and we’re very excited about this.”
It was clear that the Spaniard was more than happy to get the now 28-year old, on a permanent basis.
Should Aston Villa sign him?
It is safe to say that Cristante would be a direct replacement for Dendoncker, such is his defensive mindset for Roma.
His main strengths revolve around defending. With him being very adept at winning aerial duels and tackles. He would slot right into Emery’s side with his calmness on the ball and his solid passing ability.
The issue does come when it comes to his discipline which may put the Villans off but Mochi does seem to like him.
It would make sense if there are to be certain departures in January but it just depends if he is willing to play second fiddle to Boubacar Kamara.
