Aston Villa open talks to sign France international – Romano

Aston Villa have formally opened talks with Sevilla over Loic Bade, according to Fabrizio Romano.

With the deal to sign Donyell Malen from Borussia Dortmund all but wrapped up, Aston Villa chief Monchi is preparing his next moves. Amid interest in Oscar Mingueza and Tidiam Gomis, the recruitment guru is now looking at a familiar face.

L’Equipe reported on Monday that Aston Villa had enquired about France international Loic Bade, whom Monchi had signed for Sevilla in January 2023.

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Now, Fabrizio Romano has provided an update on the situation, stating that Aston Villa have officially opened talks with the LaLiga side over a potential January move.

Bade is said to be high on the shortlist of Monchi and coach Unai Emery, although negotiations still appear to be at an early stage. The 24-year-old reportedly has a release clause in the region of €50 million to €60m.

Aston Villa want Bade

Bade, who has been called up by Didier Deschamps to France’s senior squad but has yet to make his full debut, has long been linked with a Premier League move.

Liverpool have also been associated with the Frenchman, while he previously got a small taste of English football on loan at Nottingham Forest. However, he left the club for Sevilla after just six months without having made a single competitive appearance.

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The centre-back has established himself among LaLiga’s best defenders, although he has had to deal with persistent muscle injuries at times. He is likely being eyed by Villa as a replacement for Diego Carlos, who is expected to leave the club either this month or in the summer.

Carlos is said to have suitors all across Europe, with suitors now emboldened by the news that Villa have rejected Fenerbahce’s ‘final offer’ for the 31-year-old Brazilian.