Mina Rzouki has claimed that Juventus are ‘desperate’ for money, so Aston Villa might just land Rodrigo Bentancur for as little as £16 million, as she told the Transfer Show on Sky Sports.
The Italian journalist added that £16 million for Bentancur is still ‘a bit too low’ given that Juventus paid ‘around £14 million’ for his midfield talents in 2017, but they can still get him for around that price.
Steven Gerrard is looking to add more quality to his European-chasing armoury after signing Philippe Coutinho and Lucas Digne this month.
One South American has already arrived and made his mark by scoring on debut, whilst another may join in the form of a Uruguayan.
Sky Sports have already reported that Villa have started talks to sign Bentancur for £16 million and this is a possible deal that might drag on until Monday’s deadline day.
Nonetheless, this is what Rzouki had to say about the defensive-minded player that turns 25 in June.
“I think £16 million is a bit too low,” said Rzouki. “They paid around £14 million to bring him in.
“I think they will ask more than that. And I think they will get a little more than that.
“This is the thing. They can’t obviously lose all of their midfielders (regarding Arsenal wanting Arthur). And they definitely want to get Ramsey out.
“It’s just a case of Arthur and Bentancur, it’s too much. I do think it will be more than £16 million, but they are desperate for money, so you never know.”
Juventus recorded a goalless draw at AC Milan over the weekend, with Villa fans scouting the defensive-minded midfielder.
Bentancur started the game for his stumbling side and helped them secure a clean sheet against an AC Milan side that are chasing the title.
Nonetheless, with Marvelous Nakamba seemingly out injured for the rest of this season, it does leave a void in Gerrard’s midfield.
Douglas Luiz is doing a top job as a number six, but depth would be needed in case another injury occurs, especially to their rising Brazilian star.
So, it wouldn’t be a surprise if Villa push the boat out for Bentancur and he is a possible deadline-day signing.
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