Başar Önal has become a regular for NEC Nijmegen over the past two seasons. The youngster is now attracting attention from Aston Villa – deservedly so.
The versatile winger has made quite a mark for the Dutch side in the ongoing campaign. He’s contributed five goals and seven assists, showing his versatility by starting regularly at wing-back.
This seems to have brought the best out of him, as the 21-year-old played further forward last season but scored only once. In the past, he has also played as an attacking midfielder and right winger but left wing-back has played to his strengths.
Now, his performances are helping NEC Nijmegen challenge for a surprise European spot. They are third in the Eredivisie, tied on points with Ajax.
In the meantime, Aston Villa are now emerging as a possible destination for Önal.
Why Aston Villa can tempt Önal
Today, Corriere dello Sport take a detailed look at the versatile attacker, his strengths and where his future can lie.
They make it clear that Önal is one of Nijmegen’s prized assets and he is now attracting attention from major clubs. Aston Villa are interested but so are Atletico Madrid.
The Villans could be in the driving seat, though. This is mainly because he would be tempted by a switch to the Premier League.
A transfer can be made easier by his contract, which runs out in 2028. So far, there are no signs that the Turkey U21s’ man will extend his stay at the Dutch club.
Önal witnessing incredible growth
The Turkish talent joined Nijmegen from De Graafschap for only €1m in 2024. At his former club, he contributed to 30 goals in 83 games in all competitions, impressing quite a bit at a younger age.
At that point, his best had come in a traditional left-winger role, another example of the versatility on offer to Aston Villa.
His price tag is currently unknown but Nijmegen will definitely earn a high capital gain from a sale.