Latest Aston Villa transfer news as Unai Emery looks to bolster his squad ahead of the new Premier League season
Julian Quinones in action for Mexico against England at the World Cup
Julian Quinones has been linked with a move to Aston Villa(Image: Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
View Image
Aston Villa are beginning to ramp up their efforts to sign Mexico World Cup star Julian Quinones, according to reports, but an official bid is not yet forthcoming.
Sky Sports Belgium journalist and transfer specialist Sacha Tavolieri claims that Villa have used their scouts at the World Cup to take a close look at the 29-year-old winger, who scored four goals for Mexico, including one against England, at the North American tournament before being eliminated by the Three Lions on Monday morning.
Quinones' goal haul was a record-equalling figure for a Mexican at a World Cup. Having represented his native Colombia at U20 level, he rejected the option to represent the senior team after moving to Mexico when he was 17. He has since made 27 appearances for his adopted nation, scoring six goals.
His impressive performances at the World Cup have reportedly convinced Villa to make serious enquires about the player who currently plies his trade in the Saudi Pro League.
Quinones scored a staggering 33 goals in 31 league appearances for Al-Qadsiah last season.
Writing for Sky Sports Belgium, journalist Tavolieri claims: "According to our information, Aston Villa's management, through their scouts present at the tournament, took advantage of the competition to closely observe the striker. Convinced by his level of performance, the English club made inquiries with the player's entourage to assess the feasibility of a potential transfer.
"Contacts between the various parties have recently intensified, demonstrating Aston Villa's growing interest in Quiñones. At this stage, however, no official offer has been made, but the situation could change in the coming weeks."
Villa are not the only Premier League club to be linked with Quinones, however. According to Marca, Chelsea have also shown interest in the World Cup star and are pursuing a deal.
Villa's ability to offer the in-demand forward Champions League football is seen as a major advantage in a transfer tussle that is likely to gain traction in the coming weeks.