Aston Villa have a vast selection of players on their wanted list in the transfer window however, Premier League rivals Brighton are also eyeing one target.
Unai Emery and Monchi have already sanctioned nine moves at Aston Villa this summer, seeing five players arrive and four depart.
More activity is expected in the coming weeks, with a number of talents linked with exits from Villa Park, as well as reports claiming that the club are closing in on several targets.
With Jaden Philogene and Amadou Onana poised to arrive in the coming days, Emery will be more satisfied with his squad however, Monchi must be cautious not to let one target drift from his sight.
Aston Villa transfer target Brajan Gruda is now wanted by Premier League rivals Brighton
As Moussa Diaby’s future at Villa is in doubt, it would be unsurprising to see the club recruit another attacker this summer.
Earlier this month, Villa were linked to Brajan Gruda, whom BILD believe is valued around the €50m (£42m) mark by FSV Mainz.
The German outlet’s report on the Villans’ interest went as far as to say that the Midlands club were one side with increased ‘chances’ to sign the 20-year-old this summer.
Now, Villa’s plot to capture the highly-rated German talent is in jeopardy, as Fabrizio Romano revealed that another Premier League club are eyeing his services.
The renowned journalist explained that Brighton have made the versatile Bundesliga forward a ‘dream’ target, with the Seagulls considering him as a ‘huge talent and future top player’.
While it’s understood that Mainz want to keep the 2004-born ace at the club, Premier League interest seems to be heating up.
Villa must continue to track Gruda this summer
The 2023/24 campaign marked a breakthrough for the Vila and Brighton target, as he became a favourite at Mainz in his first consistent campaign with the first team.
Gruda secured 28 Bundesliga appearances, where he contributed to even goals operating predominantly on the right side of attack.
It’s clear to see why clubs such as Brighton and Villa are eyeing the 20-year-old, who showcased his strength at ball-carrying and playmaking in the German top flight last term.
As per FBref, Gruda ranked in the top 4% of attackers in the Bundesliga for his stellar average of 5.48 progressive carries per 90, with his strength on the ball being one of his greatest assets.
Being a young player capable of moulding into the front line, it would make sense for Emery to remain on his tail, particularly with Diaby’s future as a second-striker at Villa in doubt.
Brighton have made their thoughts on the £42m-rated star clear, giving Monchi something to think about this summer.
