Aston Villa are the frontrunners to sign Roma forward Matias Soule this summer, with Fichajes reporting that Arsenal are also considering a €40 million move for the Argentine, as Mikel Arteta looks to add a versatile attacker following uncertainty over Gabriel Jesus’s future at the Emirates.
Soule joined Roma on a permanent deal from Juventus last summer and has since contributed 15 goal involvements across all competitions, operating effectively across the frontline in multiple roles.
Both clubs have been quoted the same €40m price point by Roma, and SportsBoom insist Villa are currently the team leading the chase.
Why Aston Villa lead the race for Matias Soule
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Villa’s advantage stems from their existing relationship with Roma, built through recent transfer business that has given both clubs a strong level of mutual familiarity and trust. Donyell Malen’s loan-to-buy deal being executed smoothly this season is the most recent example of that dynamic working well for both parties.
Emery is looking for a forward who can play centrally and out wide, and Soule fits that profile precisely. His ability to stretch defences and contribute in tight spaces from a variety of positions gives Villa the flexibility their attacking third has occasionally lacked this season when relying heavily on Ollie Watkins as the focal point.
Champions League football next season is Villa’s strongest card. Soule is 22 and at the stage of his career where playing at the highest European level should take clear priority over other considerations.
What Arsenal transfer interest means
Arsenal’s involvement complicates what Villa might have hoped would be a straightforward negotiation. Arteta is exploring options to replace Gabriel Jesus, who is entering the final year of his contract and attracting interest from AC Milan and Newcastle United.
Soule’s movement, pressing output and versatility make him an attractive alternative or complement to a more traditional striker, and at €40m he falls well below the fees Arsenal have been discussing for Julian Alvarez or Arda Guler. His age and Argentine international pedigree also fit the profile of player the Gunners have been targeting in recent windows.
Will Matias Soule leave Roma this summer?
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Roma would consider selling if the right offer arrives, particularly given their financial situation under the Friedkin Group ownership and the need to manage the wage structure carefully. A €40m sale representing a profit on their Juventus outlay gives the Roman club strong commercial motivation to engage with serious approaches.
Soule himself is understood to be open to a Premier League move if the right opportunity presents itself. The choice between Arsenal and Aston Villa, should both firm up their interest into concrete bids, would essentially come down to which project he finds more compelling: Arsenal’s title-winning ambition or Villa’s European adventure under Emery.
Related Items:AS Roma, Aston Villa, Matias Soule, Newcastle United
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