Pete O’Rourke has provided an update on Espanyol forward and Aston Villa target Raul de Tomas.
The striker had an incredible campaign last season, scoring 17 goals in 36 appearances in all competitions. And that has attracted interest from the Premier League, with Spanish reports linking him with a potential move to Aston Villa this summer.
Speaking to GiveMeSport, O’Rourke had his say on the striker, saying: “De Tomas has been linked with a few Premier League clubs recently this summer.
“I think also Newcastle have been linked to them, but I think Aston Villa are an attractive option for players right now with the ambition that the club’s owners have, and also with Steven Gerrard as manager as well I’m sure plays a big part in some players’ thinking of where they might possibly move.”
We’d have to agree with O’Rourke about how attractive a move to Aston Villa is right now. They’ve shown several signs of intent when it comes to arrivals. They look like a club ready to push on and reach greater heights, signing the likes of Philippe Coutinho and Diego Carlos.
The question, however, is will De Tomas make the move this summer? There’s still just over a month left until the transfer window slams shut, but, as of right now, nothing seems to be moving in the right direction to indicate that De Tomas will be playing at Villa Park next season, with early reports slowing down.
TIF Thoughts on O’Rourke’s Comments…
De Tomas certainly proved his goal scoring prowess last season, but, considering the fact that he’s already 27, the likes of Villa may target those on the verge of entering their prime, rather than those already deep into it.
With Ollie Watkins and Danny Ings to call on already, too, Gerrard may not have a forward at the top of his summer shopping list ahead of the new Premier League season, which starts next month.