Aston Villa have intensified their scouting of Bologna's highly-rated Argentine striker, Santiago Castro, as the January transfer window approaches.
Premier League Clubs Circle for In-Demand Forward
According to reports from Italy, Villa are not alone in their admiration for the 21-year-old. Chelsea and Nottingham Forest have also been credited with a serious interest in the player, with Forest having sent officials to watch him recently. The growing attention from England's top flight has prompted Bologna to act swiftly, opening fresh contract talks with Castro's representatives on Boxing Day in an attempt to secure his future.
The Details of the Potential Deal
Castro, who joined Bologna from Velez Sarsfield in January 2024, is under contract for another two-and-a-half years. His current employers are now keen to improve his terms, offering a new deal worth €800,000 per year plus bonuses of €400,000. While Villa would have no financial difficulty matching these wages, a January move would represent a significant outlay, with the striker's valuation sitting in the €40-50 million bracket.
On the pitch this season, Castro has found the net five times in 21 appearances across all competitions, though he is currently on a run of five league games without a goal. His overall record for the Serie A side stands at 16 goals in 75 matches.
How Castro Would Fit at Villa Park and Beyond
For Unai Emery's side, a move for a new centre-forward would be intriguing given their existing options. Ollie Watkins remains the undisputed first choice, supported by summer signing Donyell Malen. A big-money move for Castro in January would therefore be a surprise, suggesting either a change in strategy or planning for the longer term.
The situation is similar at Nottingham Forest, who have a cluster of attacking talent including Igor Jesus, Taiwo Awoniyi, and Arnaud Kalimuendo, despite an injury to Chris Wood. Forest's existing relationship with Bologna, having signed Dan Ndoye from them last summer, could potentially give them an edge in any negotiations.
With multiple Premier League clubs now closely monitoring his progress, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Santiago Castro remains in Italy or makes a lucrative switch to English football.
