Aston Villa are in talks for the transfer of Lutsharel Geertruida from Feyenoord, as Unai Emery eyes a versatile presence in his backline.
According to HITC, Aston Villa have initiated talks for Feyenoord defender Lutsharel Geertruida ahead of a potential move. The 24-year-old versatile Dutchman will have a tactically astute place in Unai Emery’s plans, as his arrival could pave the way for Diego Carlos to depart.
Why are Aston Villa chasing Lutsharel Geertruida?
Unai Emery likes players who can fit into his plans and bring in versatility. Aston Villa have been one of the busiest Premier League sides this summer and have engaged in plenty of incomings as well as outgoings. There are still a few places the manager would like to recruit in, including adding to the backline.
Diego Carlos is linked with Fulham, as Emery would readily let the Brazilian leave if he could sign his preferred target in defence. Even with Carlos potentially leaving, Villa will still have good enough options in central defence, including Pau Torres, Ezri Konsa, and Tyrone Mings.
They are also looking to cash in on Matty Cash, and hence, signing a new right-back would make total sense for Emery. Villa are linked with Lutsharel Geertruida, and the move could now progress after they opened talks for the 24-year-old versatile Dutchman.
Feyenoord wanted £25 million for the 24-year-old last summer, and now, with a year left on his current deal, Geertruida might be available for a lower fee. Hence, Emery might see this as a significant market opportunity to bring a player that suits his style and will undoubtedly improve the backline.
How does Geertruida fit in at Villa?
Geertruida primarily plays as a right-back and was previously linked with Liverpool following the arrival of former Feyenoord boss Arne Slot at Anfield. However, those links have gone down, as Aston Villa look like the favourites to land him so as to add quality and depth to their defence ahead of a season with Champions League football.
Tactically, Geertruida will fit in as their new right-back. He can also invert and carry the ball distances, which adds to his many attributes. Meanwhile, his arrival could allow Emery to shift Konsa to central defence alongside Torres on a full-time basis following a year playing right back. Overall, Emery can flex his backline to his shape, as the 24-year-old versatile Dutchman will improve this squad drastically.
