Aston Villa might have a chance to finally sign their Portuguese transfer target despite their initial rejection before.
Aston Villa transfer business with the Portuguese giant, Sporting Lisbon, could eventually begin to a more decisive stage as there has been interesting development regarding their target. The Portuguese international Pedro Goncalves has been Villa’s transfer target for a while.
According to the report in ABola via Sportwitness.co.uk, his current side changes their decision on his possible summer exit.
“Sporting is willing to listen to offers. The decision has been made effectively by both sides. Pedro Goncalves is expected to leave Jose Avalade after six-trophy-filled seasons.”
Goncalves joined Sporting Lisbon in 2020 from Famalicao. He is currently still under contract until summer 2030, which based on his contract extension signed just last October. However, things do not seem to go as expected. This season Sporting failed to win the league, meaning they missed the spot in Champions League next season.
Back in 2023, Aston Villa has made an offer with the fee £33.8 million. Yet, it was rejected due to his crucial role for the team. They were still eyeing for him to last summer.
Now, with the fact that the player himself is keen on moving on, Sporting might even have to lower their asking price. The potential current price tag for the 27-year old versatile winger is even less than £30 million. It will be around £25.4 million only, which is quite a bargain for the player in such quality.
Aston Villa offers him a chance to play at the top level in the Premier League as well as Champions League. It will be interesting if the club would respond soon.
Pedro Goncalves has been the key man in Sporting since he joined the side in 2020. He has made 239 appearances, contributing 97 goals and 36 assists.
The Chaves-born winger is a versatile figure. He can play on the right and left flanks, as well as central midfielder, and even attacking midfielder and forward, when necessary. Goncalves is the player profile Emery is looking for.
During his stint, he has won three league titles and one domestic cup. The winger with only four international caps excels in passing, creating chances by through balls as well as finishing and taking set-pieces.
Based on the data in FotMob, his xG is 8.677 while his xA is 5.69. His successful passes is up to 80.8 % with accurate long balls is 67.4 %. His successful crosses is about 30.3 %. Meanwhile, his successful dribbles is 47.4 % with 43.8 % for winning duel against the opposition sides. Goncalves only lacks of defensive contribution. He has only made 32 of them including 15 tackles and six interception.
Perhaps the most disappointing part for him is that he missed the Portugal world cup final squad despite his fine form this season. Due to the abundance of talent in the midfield area, he barely has a chance to feature regularly with Seleccao das Quinas.
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