Monchi could reportedly make a move for Galatasaray forward Nicolo Zaniolo if Sevilla’s sporting director is appointed at Premier League outfit Aston Villa this summer.
While the anticipation is certainly rising – one of Europe’s most renowned talentspotters closing in on a move to Villa Park – no one is getting carried away just yet.
Aston Villa fingers have been burned already, after all; Mateu Alemany opting to stay at Barcelona despite entering advanced negotiations with the Midland giants back in May.
Talks to hire Monchi in Alemany’s place are, however, progressing nicely. The Guardian say that terms between the two parties have been agreed.
And reports from Italy believe that Monchi, once appointed, may waste little time in returning for a player who can probably be considered his most inspired addition during a difficult two-year spell at Roma between 2017 and 2019.
A reunion with Monchi at Aston Villa may be on the cards
Nicolo Zaniolo moved to the Stadio Olimpico for just £4 million, as part of the deal that saw Radja Nainggolan move in the other direction to Inter Milan.
“Inter didn’t want to sell Zaniolo. They’re not stupid,” Monchi told Sky Italia at the time. “But given that they wanted to take Radja, it was only logical they’d have to give something up.
“I have to say, I didn’t think Zaniolo would be so decisive right away!”
Few did, in truth.
Zaniolo became a fans’ favourite almost overnight in the capital until his development was stalled by not one but two ACL injuries. The Italy international joined Galatasaray in January after struggling to regain his top form under Jose Mourinho. Though a £30 million release clause in his contract could tempt Monchi into sparking a reunion at Villa Park (Tuttomecatoweb).
Zaniolo has started just two Super Lig games at Galatasaray, but has a remarkable five goals already despite his limited game time. He was a key part of the Roma side which claimed the UEFA Conference League in 2022 as well, netting a brilliant winner against Feyenoord in the final.
‘Incredible potential’
“Zaniolo has incredible potential,” said Roma legend Zbigniew Boniek; suggesting that the 23-year-old attacking midfielder has everything to become an elite-level centre-forward instead.
“If you ask people what his position is, then everyone will give you a different response. In my view, he is a classic number nine. He can protect the ball, has physical strength, turns defenders well, is good in the air and can shoot.
“I always say when I see (Juventus’) Dusan Vlahovic play that Zaniolo could do just as well. Perhaps even better, because he also has this strong physicality. He really is a great player.”
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
