Brighton join the race to sign Aston Villa target

Following Leeds United's Championship Play-Off final defeat to Southampton a few weeks ago, speculation has grown regarding the future of their star man and top goalscorer Crysencio Summerville. It is rumoured that Villa are highly likely to make an offer this summer but they are not the only top flight club interested in the Dutchman.

Summerville finished with 20 goals and 9 assists in an outstanding season at Elland Road and was a vital figure in Leed's promotion push. With Leeds failing to gain promotion to the Premier League, it looks likely that Summerville will want to leave and play in the top flight having had a taste of it in the season Leeds United were relegated two years ago. Summerville was less successful that year, scoring just four goals, but has grown in experience and as a player with his experiences of the past season.

"Crysencio is a baller. When you see a guy touching the ball like he does it’s heart-warming. We want him to improve his effectiveness. Need goals and assists and end products. The next step in his career. Delivers like this, he is on a good path."

- Daniel Farke - Leeds United manager

It is now being reported that Brighton have joined both Villa and Crystal Palace in the race to sign Summerville, who is likely to leave Leeds for a fee of around £35 million. Brighton have started initial discussions between the clubs in an attempt to jump the queue and seal the deal before others have the opportunity. With Villa potentially facing PSR difficulties, it may be a stretch to far for the Villans.

Summerville is a skilful player who can play on either wing and his pace and dribbling ability saw him score a lot of goals and create a lot of chances last season. He would provide versatility in the forward areas that would prove most useful for teams playing a high number of games due to participation in European competitions, like Villa will be for example. With Leon Bailey and Moussa Diaby both playing a huge amount of games last season, more depth in the squad would allow for more regular rotation and allow for a more sustained level of fitness for all players involved.

UTV