Aston Villa have reportedly made a £15.6 million (€20 million) plus bonuses offer to AS Roma for their defensive midfielder Bryan Cristante according to @IlarioDiGiovamb (via Villareport). The Italian international has been a key player for Roma, but considering Villa's current squad depth in this position, the move has left many scratching their heads.
Cristante has been a crucial cog in Roma's machine, making 52 appearances, scoring 4 goals, and providing 5 assists across all competitions in the 2023/24 season. His versatility and reliability in both defensive and offensive phases have made him an invaluable asset to the team. However, with Villa's recent signings, it's unclear where Cristante would fit in.
Villa have been busy in the transfer market, signing eight players to strengthen their squad for the upcoming challenges in the Premier League, Champions League, and domestic cups.
The new signings include Amadou Onana from Everton, Jaden Philogene from Hull City, Cameron Archer from Sheffield United, Samuel Iling-Junior and Enzo Barrenechea from Juventus, Ross Barkley from Luton Town, Ian Maatsen from Chelsea, and Lewis Dobbin from Everton.
The pursuit of Cristante, however, raises some questions. Villa have already signed Amadou Onana, a player who occupies the same position and is seven years younger than Cristante. Moreover, with Boubacar Kamara expected to return from injury by October or November, investing £15.6 million in Cristante, who might not even be a second-choice option by December, seems confusing. One possible explanation is the close relationship between Villa's President of Football Operations, Monchi, and Cristante.
Villa appears well-equipped to face the challenges that lie ahead in the Premier League, Champions League, and domestic cups. The club's recent transfer activities reflect a clear strategy to build a team capable of competing on multiple fronts.
Villa's exceptional performance last season, which saw them finish fourth in the Premier League and secure a Champions League spot for the first time in over four decades, has set the bar high for the upcoming campaign.
The club's active transfer window has brought in a mix of experienced and young players, and the potential addition of Cristante could add another dimension to their squad. While the move may seem puzzling at first glance, it's clear that Villa are committed to building a team that can compete with the best.