Aston Villa are eyeing an ambitious move to sign Inter Milan star Marcus Thuram as a potential replacement for Ollie Watkins, according to reports in Italy, courtesy of Sport Witness.
The Villans are pushing for a spot in next season's Champions League and are expecting to make major changes to their squad in the upcoming transfer window as a result, with the future of their starting striker being called into question after a disappointing campaign.
Now Villa have made their interest in a former Champions League finalist and multiple-time league winner, and it has emerged that he could be open to making the switch to the Premier League.
Aston Villa Eyeing Marcus Thuram
Inter Milan's Marcus Thuram in action with Arsenal's Cristhian Mosquera
Thuram, who has been described as 'extraordinary', has had a fine spell at Inter Milan since joining on a free transfer from Borussia Monchengladbach, but has struggled for form this season, netting just seven goals as they chase the Serie A title.
The France international is set to enter the final two years of his contract at the San Siro, and it's understood that he is now open to a move away from the club for a new challenge, with the Premier League seen as a preferred destination should an offer materialise.
Villa have made direct contact with the striker's representatives to inform them of their interest, although no official club-to-club contact has been made at this stage. Thuram is currently focused on completing the season, and earning a spot in the France squad for this summer's World Cup.
But with question marks over the future of Watkins, with reports suggesting the club are open to letting him leave, Thuram could be the perfect replacement and a real statement signing for Emery's side.
Thuram Would Be Watkins Upgrade
Inter Milan's Marcus Thuram in action with Arsenal's Cristhian Mosquera
Despite his struggles this season, Thuram has shown immense quality at the very highest level and at just 28 years old, he is only entering the prime years of his career now.
Watkins is the wrong side of 30 and his physical attributes are clearly now beginning to decline, which would make this the obvious time to cash in and bring in a top replacement to take the team up a level, or at the very least maintain them where they are.
GIVEMESPORT asked ChatGPT to compare Watkins and Thuram for the Premier League, and this was its response:
Ollie Watkins: Elite movement, relentless pressing, runs in behind, link-up/assists strong; suits Aston Villa system.
Marcus Thuram: More physical, better aerially, carries ball, versatile (wing/ST), stronger hold-up; less creative/pressing intensity.
Fit: Watkins = system-perfect; Thuram = different dimension (target/transition threat).
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