Aston Villa have emerged as the frontrunners to sign RB Leipzig midfielder Eljif Elmas during the summer transfer window, according to reports.
The 26-year-old North Macedonian international has made his preference clear, with the player reportedly keen on a move to the West Midlands club over other interested parties.
Turkish side Fenerbahce are also understood to be interested in securing the services of Elmas, but the player would prefer to join Aston Villa instead.
Villa’s secured Champions League qualification for the upcoming campaign has reportedly played a significant role in attracting the midfielder’s interest in the club.
Elmas spent last season on loan at Napoli from RB Leipzig and will now be looking to resolve his long-term future ahead of the new campaign.
The versatile midfielder is capable of operating in multiple positions, able to play on either flank as well as centrally, making him an attractive option for manager Unai Emery.
At 26 years old, Elmas is considered to be at the peak of his powers and will be eager to make an immediate impression in the Premier League should a move materialise.
Aston Villa are in need of greater squad depth as they prepare for the demands of competing simultaneously in the Premier League and the Champions League next season.
Signing a player of Elmas’s flexibility and experience could prove to be a smart piece of business for Villa, providing Emery with additional options across the midfield and wide areas.
Given that the player has expressed a clear preference to join Aston Villa, the West Midlands club are expected to hold a strong advantage in any negotiations over the midfielder’s signature.
Villa’s growing reputation as an ambitious and progressive club appears to be a key factor in persuading players of Elmas’s calibre to consider a move to Villa Park.
How the situation ultimately develops remains to be seen, but all current signs point towards Aston Villa being best placed to secure the deal when talks progress.
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