Aston Villa midfielder Morgan Sanson could be offered a quick route back to France as Nantes are interested in signing the player.
According to Foot Mercato, Nantes are interested in signing Morgan Sanson in the summer transfer window, with the Aston Villa midfielder reportedly considering leaving the club after the season ends.
Changes are expected to occur at Aston Villa as Steven Gerrard stamps his authority on the squad and oversees their transfer activity. The former Liverpool midfielder only took over the reins from Dean Smith back in November and has brought about a decent improvement compared to the previous regime.
Some of the current squad players could leave the club, and new ones could be brought in during the summer. Gerrard remains keen to transform the central midfield zone, as the former Rangers boss wants a top-notch setup in the middle.
They are already linked with ambitious moves for some top players and have been reported to be the front-runners in the race to sign Leeds United ace Kalvin Phillips. The English international certainly would be an upgrade on Villa’s current midfield options, which could mean a player or two could depart Villa Park.
Morgan Sanson seems the most likely to make space in the summer after failing to establish himself during his 18 months at Villa Park. The Frenchman, signed for just over £14 million in January 2021, has not cemented his place under two managers in Birmingham.
Although he was considered a wise buy, Sanson has struggled with a loss of form, with niggling injuries playing a part in the downfall. He did not feature even once this season under Smith, but he seems to have found a new lease on life since Gerrard’s arrival.
However, in recent weeks, Gerrard has preferred to keep him out of his starting lineups, which is indicative of his out-of-favour status at the club. There were rumours of Arsenal and Tottenham keeping tabs on the midfielder in January, although now the midfielder might consider returning to France, where Nantes are keen.
The Ligue 1 side wants Sanson to shore up their midfield options as they wish to enter next season with the ambition of qualifying for Europe. Currently, they are a mid-table side, although multiple factors point towards steady improvements.
Sanson might be open to returning to his native France, although Aston Villa’s possible asking price for the midfielder might complicate things. The Premier League outfit are keen on selling unwanted stars to raise funds for the next window, and it remains to be seen how much they demand for the 27-year-old.
