Aston Villa are reportedly interested in Lucas Digne and are ready to rival Chelsea for the Everton full-back, who is available for a transfer.
According to the Daily Mail, Aston Villa have entered the race for Everton left-back Lucas Digne in the January window and are ready to rival Chelsea for the Frenchman’s signature.
Digne has become a surprise name to be made available for transfer in the January window after things turned sour between the defender and manager Rafael Benitez. Despite Everton going through a terrible run of form and struggling with a lack of quality players, the Spanish boss has kept ignoring the full-back. The differences have emerged due to Everton’s pragmatic and defence-minded approach under Benitez.
Everton have now placed the French international on the transfer list and have already signed a replacement in Vitaliy Mykolenko, who was unveiled before the game against Brighton & Hove Albion over the weekend.
Chelsea have emerged as the leading contender for Digne after the Blues confirmed the prolonged absence of Ben Chilwell would extend beyond the end of the season. Thomas Tuchel has requested the club to bring in a quality replacement, and the Frenchman could fit the bill due to his attacking style.
If Digne signs for Chelsea, he will be a mid to long-term replacement for Marcos Alonso more than Chilwell, as the England international is a key part of the club. The Frenchman will have to play second fiddle once the injured left-back returns from his injury, which could prompt competitors to approach the Toffees star.
Aston Villa have now entered the race and are ready to rival Chelsea for the ex-Barcelona star’s signature. The Midlands club are playing a brand of attacking football suited to Digne’s style. Steven Gerrard is keen to address a few key areas of his squad, including the left-back position.
The former Rangers boss seeks a quality alternative to Matt Targett in the position. Villa also have Ashley Young, but he is certainly not a long-term option owing to his age.
Hence, someone like Digne could be perfect for the club. The likes of Ollie Watkins and Danny Ings would benefit from the quality of balls the full-back is capable of delivering. Everton are reportedly demanding around £25 million for the Frenchman.
The Villans could be a good option, but the lure of playing in the Champions League and challenging for trophies could tempt Digne into joining Chelsea.
