Maxi Gomez continues to be linked with Premier League clubs – but what about newly-promoted Aston Villa?

Aston Villa scout Juanfran has admitted to Marca that he is a big fan of Celta Vigo striker Maxi Gomez… as the Premier League newcomers eye a marquee signing.
Villa sealed their return to the top flight after a two-year absence by beating Derby County in the Championship play-off final and, with the future of prolific loanee Tammy Abraham uncertain, Dean Smith’s side have been linked with a number of impressive centre-forwards.
The most recent is Mbwana Samatta, the £12 million-rated Genk forward who emerged as a target on Wednesday, according to The Sun.
But Juanfran, who joined Aston Villa as a scout in December, has spoken warmly about another highly-rated striker who the Midlands giants should consider.
“He is a reference point, he is always well position and attentive to the second balls. Above all, what is asked of a striker are goals,” the former Spain international, who had five years at Celta between 1999 and 2004, told Marca.
“That (excellent goalscoring record) is why he interests the Premier League clubs.”

The Uruguayan international, who has been compared to compatriot Luis Suarez, has scored 30 goals in 69 La Liga games, including 13 last season.
Gomez, who has a £43 million release clause in his contract, has been linked with Liverpool and West Ham but The Star believes that he recently held talks with Tottenham Hotspur.

Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
