Aston Villa could move for Watford winger Ismaila Sarr if they fail to land their other targets, according to transfer journalist Pete O’Rourke.
They have been linked with Arnaut Danjuma of Villarreal, who played under Unai Emery in La Liga, but should they fail to sign the Dutchman, the Watford star would be a viable option in January.
The 24-year-old scored five times and provided two assists in the Premier League last season as Watford were relegated, and has scored 30 goals in total for the Hornets.
Speaking to This Is Futbol, O’Rourke claimed that Sarr could be an option for Emery in January, as he seeks out a wide player, but it will depend upon if they can complete moves for their other targets.
The journalist said: “He’s maybe not among the top targets right now, but if they’re not able to land those, I’m sure they might revisit a potential move for Ismaila Sarr, who I’m sure would jump at the chance of a move to the Premier League.”
TIF Thoughts on Villa and Sarr…
With his contract running out in 2024, he could eventually be on the move for a good value fee, having previously been given a price tag of over £25m.
Villa agreed to a deal in the summer which fell through, but could reopen Sarr as an option if necessary, and given his age and previous performances in the Premier League, he could be a smart addition.
Sarr, who has been labelled as a ‘freak’ player, was particularly impressive when he helped end Liverpool’s long unbeaten run in 2020 as Watford picked up a shock 3-0 victory, and Emery will know Sarr well, as the Senegal international terrorised his Arsenal side in the Europa League for Stade Rennais in 2019.
They may need to move some players on before they recruit in attacking areas, and Philippe Coutinho is someone they might choose to sell to clear the wage bill before moving for Sarr.