Aston Villa have thrown their hat into the ring for Las Palmas starlet Alberto Moleiro
According to The Daily Mail, Premier League side Aston Villa have entered the race to land Las Palmas sensation Alberto Moleiro.
The youngster came through the ranks at Sobradillo before moving to Las Palmas in 2018. He initially spent time at the club’s reserve sides before getting his first senior appearance in 2021 at the age of just 17. He has since gone on to make 60 appearances across all competitions, scoring thrice and making six assists.
An attacking midfielder, the 19-year-old is capable of playing out wide on either flank. A technically adept player, Moleiro is good on the ball and is also adept at running into spaces. While there are still some kinks to iron out in his game, the youngster has shown enough promise to suggest that he has a bright future in the game.
This has brought him to the attention of several English clubs, with Aston Villa also joining the list. Now managed by Spaniard Unai Emery, the Midlands side will be well aware of the potential in the 19-year-old’s talents. Having taken over from Steven Gerrard mid-season, Emery will be keen to rebuild the side in his image.
The Villains face competition from Arsenal and Liverpool, both of who are keen on the player. The Gunners are enjoying an excellent season and find themselves at the top of the Premier League standings. Mikel Arteta is putting together a young side that is, despite their brilliance, lacking in depth. Moleiro certainly has the skill set to fit right into the Gunners’ roster.
Liverpool are a solid side that is rebuilding. However, one can argue that Jurgen Klopp and co have other priorities than to stack their attack. The Reds require serious investment in midfield and can pass on Moleiro for the time being. With the likes of Harvey Elliott and Fabio Carvalho already at the club, there is little need for the Merseysiders to go all out.
Villa, for their part, can offer the youngster more playtime and a better chance at enjoying first-team football from the go. Also, Moleiro can develop his game without being forced into the limelight. The youngster has it in him to make it at a big club, but he will be better served not to rush the transfer before he is ready.
Likened to Barcelona midfielder Pedri, Moleiro is a player to watch out for in the coming years. Emery is keen to reinforce his squad in January and appears set to make moves in the coming weeks. Whether it involves Moleiro or not remains to be seen.
