Aston Villa have been linked to Iceland and Genoa star, Albert Gudmundsson following a positive start to the season.
In recent weeks, it has been clear that Aston Villa are looking to add attacking reinforcements to their ranks in January.
In certain aspects, Unai Emery’s squad is light with the striker position being somewhere that the Villans want to add to.
It must be said, the backup striker right now is Jhon Duran but with recent controversy, it is unclear where his future lies. Although many fans do not want to lose the Colombian, a loan move is looking likely.
With all that being said, goals haven’t been in short supply in B6 so far with 29 goals scored so far. This ranks below just Manchester City in the Premier League.
Who is Albert Gudmundsson?
Gudmundsson is a full Iceland international who has made over 30 appearances for his country, scoring six goals.
With that being said, the forward started his senior career in The Netherlands with PSV. He made 63 appearances for their Jong side before being promoted to their senior team after he scored 28 goals.
His form didn’t continue with the men’s team as he failed to register a goal in the Eredivisie in 12 appearances.
This saw AZ Alkmaar come in and take the forward off their rivals as Gudmundsson moved across the country.
With 98 appearances and 24 goals, the Icelander was sold as he moved to Serie A with Genoa in January 2022.
In nearly two years in Italy, the versatile attacker has featured in 64 appearances and has gone on to score 22 and assist six goals, with five strikes coming this season.
He played a key role as Serie B promotion was secured and has continued to perform well, sparking interest.
Should Aston Villa sign him?
According to reports from Calcio Mercato, Aston Villa are one of many Premier League side’s looking at the 26-year old.
Gudmundsson is a versatile forward and is able to play as a striker, a number ten or even out wide if needed.
He is very adept on the ball when it comes to passing and dribbling which makes him a threat when dropping deeper.
His finishing, especially from range, is very good but this isn’t what Emery likes to see from his forwards traditionally.
What makes him the kind of player that Aston Villa should be interested in is his defensive contribution.
The thing with this is he doesn’t really fit into the striker role and is maybe a back up for that second striker position.
Although Gudmundsson would be a very interesting signing, there would need to be some outgoings in forward areas before he became necessary.
