Sevilla's financial crisis could see Aston Villa land top striker target

Sevilla's pressing financial situation could play into the hands of Aston Villa and their sporting director, Monchi, as they pursue Moroccan striker Youssef En-Nesyri. The Spanish club's need to generate funds before 30th June may force them to accept a significantly lower fee than initially anticipated.

According to Estadio Deportivo, Sevilla find themselves in a "rush to make cash" to balance their books and fund a planned squad overhaul. En-Nesyri, who has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, including Aston Villa and West Ham United, is seen as the prime candidate to be sold to help the club meet their financial obligations.

Sevilla had initially set an asking price of £25.5 million for the striker, but their desperate need for funds could see them settle for as little as £12.7 million. The club may be willing to accept a lower base fee with bonuses included to reach the desired amount. However, even reaching the £25.5 million mark through add-ons may prove challenging, given Sevilla's current financial predicament.

This development could be advantageous for Aston Villa, who are looking to bolster their squad ahead of their Champions League campaign. However, the club must also consider the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), which they are reportedly close to breaching due to recent spending.

West Ham United, despite having already been rejected in their pursuit of En-Nesyri, remain interested in the striker. Manager Julen Lopetegui, who previously worked with the Moroccan at Sevilla, is keen on reuniting with him at the London Stadium. The Hammers have already had one offer rejected but are expected to return with an improved bid.

As the 30th June deadline looms, Sevilla's desperation to secure a significant sale is becoming increasingly apparent. Aston Villa may benefit from playing the waiting game, as the Spanish club's asking price continues to drop with each passing day.

En-Nesyri, who has been at Sevilla since January 2020, has scored an impressive 20 goals in 41 appearances across all competitions this season. With his contract set to expire in the summer of 2025, the La Liga club may be forced to accept a bid in the region of £25 million, which they previously rejected from West Ham in January 2023.

The battle for Youssef En-Nesyri's signature could intensify, with Aston Villa, West Ham United, and potentially other Premier League clubs vying for the Moroccan striker's services.

Sevilla's financial predicament may ultimately determine the outcome of this transfer saga, with the Spanish club's need to generate funds potentially handing Aston Villa a golden opportunity to secure their target at a reduced price.