Aston Villa are reportedly preparing a stunning January move for Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush, setting up a potential transfer battle with Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
Villa's Ambitious Attacking Target
According to fresh rumours, Unai Emery's side have expressed interest in the versatile Egyptian international, who is currently representing his country at the Africa Cup of Nations. Tottenham Hotspur are already in the race, having lodged an official enquiry for the player. The 26-year-old was signed by Manchester City 18 months ago for a fee in the region of £59 million, but could now be on the move again.
This interest comes despite Villa's recent impressive form, which included an 11-match winning streak. However, the club's attack has shown inconsistency. Earlier in the season, they managed just one goal in their opening five Premier League games, and striker Ollie Watkins has experienced fluctuating form. A new forward signing is seen as a potential solution to add firepower for the crucial second half of the campaign.
Financial Constraints and Strategic Moves
The link to such a high-value player is surprising given Aston Villa's well-documented financial situation. The club is walking a fine line regarding the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). Emery's only major expenditure last summer was the £27.5 million signing of Evann Guessand from Nice.
To facilitate any major deal, Villa may need to generate funds. They have already secured the £10.5 million signing of Gremio winger Alysson. Furthermore, the club could look to sell Leon Bailey if his loan spell at AS Roma is terminated early, providing a welcome cash injection.
Securing Marmoush would represent a significant gamble, but one that could be justified if Villa are confident of securing UEFA Champions League qualification for next season, bringing with it a substantial financial windfall. During his time at the Etihad, Marmoush has scored nine goals and provided four assists in 40 appearances.
Emery Confirms Elliott Exit Plan
In other transfer news concerning Villa Park, manager Unai Emery has publicly confirmed that the club will not be pursuing a permanent deal for Liverpool loanee Harvey Elliott. The midfielder, last summer's Under-21 European Championship Player of the Tournament, has been frozen out of the squad since early October.
Villa's initial agreement with Liverpool included an obligation to buy Elliott for £35 million if he made at least 10 appearances. With only five outings to his name, that clause will not be triggered. Emery admitted the club decided two months ago they were not convinced to spend the required money on the player.
"The problem we have with Harvey is this year he is on loan and in case he is playing matches, we must buy him," Emery stated. "We decided two months ago we are not convinced to sign him, spending the money we need. This is the issue." Elliott is now expected to return to his parent club, Liverpool, at the end of his loan spell.
With the Africa Cup of Nations concluding on January 18, Marmoush's future is likely to become clearer upon his return to England, potentially sparking a bidding war between two ambitious Premier League clubs.
