Brighton and Sunderland are both keen on signing Aston Villa's Lamare Bogarde this summer, according to reports. The versatile 22-year-old could leave Villa Park in the coming weeks if a suitable offer is made, although a contract extension remains a possibility.
Contract Talks and Transfer Interest
Aston Villa have held initial discussions with Bogarde over a new deal, but negotiations are expected to progress only once interested clubs clarify their intentions. Voetbal International reports that both Brighton and Sunderland are willing to pay a "significant transfer fee" for the Dutch youth international. Villa value Bogarde at around €25 million (£21.5 million).
Bogarde's Desire for Regular Football
Despite being in contract talks, Bogarde is understood to be keen on securing more regular first-team football. Last season, he started just 11 Premier League matches, facing stiff competition in midfield from Boubacar Kamara, Amadou Onana, Youri Tielemans, Ross Barkley, and John McGinn. Although capable of playing at right-back and centre-back, Bogarde is not first choice in either position, and Villa are also looking to sign a new right-back this summer.
Top Transfer Target for Brighton and Sunderland
Voetbal International reports that Brighton and Sunderland now view Bogarde as a "top transfer target." Speaking about Bogarde in March, Villa boss Unai Emery said: “He has been with us for three and a half years, and we are working with every player. With him - being on loan and then coming back – we were doing a lot of individual sessions with him. His process is working individually, with the group, having experiences, sometimes being on loan at other teams. This season, it’s been a more consistent season for him. He achieved the level again yesterday, he played a fantastic match. His versatility is very important, playing as a midfielder or a centre-back or at right-back.”
What's Next for Bogarde?
The coming weeks will be crucial for Bogarde's future, as Villa weigh up offers and the player considers his options for more regular playing time.
