Despite having signed Mbwana Samatta already this month from Genk, Aston Villa are reportedly still on the lookout for another striker. It’s understood the Midlands club are monitoring the situation of Leicester City striker Islam Slimani.
The Algerian is currently on loan to French Ligue 1 side AS Monaco but according to a report from the Daily Mail, he’s keen on moving on after Manchester United made a shock approach for him – but having heard of his possible availability, Dean Smith’s side are now waiting in the wings should Leicester City be willing to move him on.
Would Islam Slimani be a worthwhile addition to the squad?
Yes
No
Aston Villa were left extremely short of striking options when Wesley was ruled out for the remainder of the season and although they’ve already added one forward to their ranks, it appears they remain open to doing additional business before the week is out.
TIF Tactics – A good addition?
Samatta has joined for a fee reported to be £9.45m (via Transfermarkt.co.uk) after scored an impressive 76 goals in 191 appearances for Genk in the Belgian top-flight but Slimani is somebody with Premier League experience and would almost certainly add another dimension to the club’s attack.
The 31-year-old has scored seven goals and provided seven assists in 13 Ligue 1 appearances this season. Valued at £7.2m (Transfermarkt), he was deemed surplus to requirements at the King Power Stadium but that’s not to say he can’t be a useful asset to those looking for a temporary fix in the striking department.
In order for a move to Villa Park to take place this month, there is a lot that needs to happen, starting with Leicester recalling him from his loan spell in France and then agreeing to open dialogue with their Midland’s rivals.