Nottingham Forest, Chelsea and Aston Villa are all chasing Bologna’s Santiago Castro.
That’s according to Saturday’s edition of Gazzetta dello Sport, which covers the Premier League trio’s interest in the 21-year-old.
Earlier this month, TuttoMercatoWeb reported on Nottingham Forest’s interest. They also stated Castro is valued at €40-50m. Gazzetta now throw Chelsea and Aston Villa into the mix.
The striker has scored five goals and contributed one assist from 21 matches this season. He has one goal over the past month but the dip in form doesn’t seem to have put off the English clubs.
GdS report Nottingham Forest have sent a scout to follow the Argentine closely. They add Chelsea and Aston Villa’s officials have also travelled to Italy to take a closer look at Castro. The Villans are said to be following him for the last two years.
In short, the Serie A side face ‘Premier League danger’ as these three clubs could snatch him from their clutches. Therefore, they have decided to take action to protect him.
Boxing Day talks after officials sent for Santiago Castro
Santiago Castro
Rome, Italy 10th November 2024: Santiago Castro of Bologna FC during the Italian Serie A 2024-25 football match between AS Roma vs Bologna FC at the Olimpico Stadium
Castro’s contract expires in 2028, and Bologna want to offer him an improved deal. Their plan is to extend it until 2029, with an option for another year, and increase his salary to €800k per year with €400k bonuses.
Bologna met with Castro’s entourage yesterday. They have laid the groundwork, and their hope is to find an agreement by January, to fend off the Premier League trio.
Nottingham Forest, Chelsea and Aston Villa wouldn’t have an issue matching what Bologna are willing to offer. They’ll have to convince Castro to stance a chance of securing his services, either in January or next summer.