Aston Villa are interested in signing £22 million midfielder Sander Berge this summer with Sheffield United expected to cash in, as reported by EuroSport.
While Berge would have been thrilled to see his fellow Norway international Erling Haaland hog the headlines after yet another stunning Champions League display, the former Genk star could be forgiven for feeling a little green around the gills.
Less than two years ago, he too was strutting his stuff in Europe’s premiere club competition.
These days, Berge is laying on the treatment table at Sheffield United, watching on helplessly as the blunt Blades hurtle towards relegation in his absence.
The chances of Berge playing Championship football next season look decidedly slim, however.
Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder has admitted that already.
“I think this has always been a springboard for Sander. He wants to play at the highest level, he wants to play the Champions League regularly and he wants to play for a top team. I know that day will come (that he will leave),” the straight-talking Wilder told TV2 last week.
“I know that Sander will not be here until he is 32 years old. I understand that, if he leaves and it happens, then it happens with our blessing
“Do I think he can play for a top club? Absolutely.”
Berge had been linked with the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal during his time in Belgium, although swapping Bramall Lane for Aston Villa may be the most sensible step on his path towards the top.
After all, Villa boss Dean Smith has a superb track record when it comes to helping promising young talents realise their vast potential; see Jack Grealish, Ezri Konsa, Matty Cash and Ollie Watkins.
The Midland giants are long-time admirers of Berge too, having tried to sign the 6ft 4ins powerhouse back in January 2020 before he joined Sheffield United instead (BleacherReport).
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