HITC Sport takes a look at three players from France’s Ligue 1 which Aston Villa should target this summer, including a former Newcastle United target.
General view – Villa Park
With the end of the season not coming quick enough for some Aston Villa fans, many of the Villa faithful will be looking forward to the summer with bated breath. As Steve Bruce prepares for his first summer transfer window, Villa fans will be hoping the club can again strengthen as the side pushes for a promotion back to the Premier League.
With potential targets likely already being drawn, HITC Sport takes a look at three players from Ligue 1, the top division in France, who might be a good and cheap option for Aston Villa in the summer.
1. Vincent Enyeama – LOSC Lille
Vincent Enyeama – Lille
The goalkeeper has been a loyal servant at Les Dogues, and if it weren’t for the efforts of keepers such as Steve Mandanda and Stephane Ruffier over the last few years, football supporters in England may have heard more about Vincent Enyeama lately. With LOSC Lille strapped for cash, Vincent Enyeama could well be a cheap and sensible option to Aston Villa’s goalkeeping woes, especially if they are not able to secure the permanent services of Manchester United goalkeeper Sam Johnstone in the summer.
2. Ryad Boudebouz – Montpellier
Montpellier’s Ryad Boudebouz in action (R)
The Algerian attacking midfielder is a serious Ligue 1 talent, and it’s been a big surprise to see him not already being picked up by a Premier League or Championship club. Skillful with the ball at his feet, and able to score goals from anywhere, Aston Villa could well target the Montpellier man with a summer bid. They may want to work fast though, because as recently as January, the Algerian was linked with a move to Newcastle United by The Chronicle.
3. Jimmy Briand – EA Guingamp
Jimmy Briand (L) – EA Guingamp
The 31-year-old Frenchman is out of contract in the summer, and could provide Aston Villa with a cheap option for the left-hand side of their midfield. Known for scoring goals wherever he goes, Jimmy Briand is a Ligue 1 veteran, who has played for clubs such as Lyon, Rennes and German side Hannover 96, amassing an impressive 86 career goals. With no transfer fee to ponder, might the winger offer some much needed goals for Aston Villa next season?
Former Olympique Lyon winger Jimmy Briand (L)
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
