Aston Villa are eager to sign Mohamed Elneny from Arsenal this month as Unai Emery eye a reunion with the Gunners’ midfielder.
According to Sunday Mirror, as relayed by HITC, Aston Villa are plotting a move to sign Mohamed Elneny from Arsenal this month as Unai Emery eyes a reunion with his former charge. The Gunners could allow a departure if they can get £6 million in return. But considering the squad depth troubles at the Emirates, a move may seem unlikely.
Since his arrival, Unai Emery has lifted the mood at Aston Villa, achieving a few big results. The Basque manager has got the club out of their slumber and a terrible start to the season under former boss Steven Gerrard. And he is eyeing key decisions in the January transfer window.
Emery wants to sign several players in multiple positions. But due to limited funds this month, Aston Villa are unlikely to grant all his wishes. Hence, the Villans’ boss may is eyeing deals that improve his squad and help the team reach their targets for the season.
One of them could be Mohamed Elneny, with the Arsenal utility man considered surplus to requirements under Arteta. The situation might be a little different from what is being reported. The Egyptian is a key part of the Gunners’ setup and adds quality depth, which is lacking in the squad. The reports claims Arsenal value him at £6 million
Aston Villa may want Elneny to improve their depth and be thrust into a role similar to what he has at Arsenal. Moreover, he will have players like Boubacar Kamara, Douglas Luiz and John McGinn ahead of him. Unless the Gunners move ahead with their reported interest in Danilo or any other holding midfielder, it is not easy to see the Egyptian utility man moving this month.
In the summer, a departure could become a possibility, as Arsenal could look to sign a new defensive midfielder. They remain linked with Declan Rice, among other names, which could allow someone like Elneny to move on. They can extend the Egyptian international’s contract by another season, which they might exercise if the interest persists.
Aston Villa might have to look elsewhere to add depth to their midfield, as Elneny may not be an achievable target this month. They might go back in the summer if Emery feels the Arsenal utility man could improve their squad, while the price tag might remain the same after the season ends.
