Paris Saint-Germain teenager Ibrahim Mbaye is reportedly 'considering his future' amid strong links to Aston Villa, with European football expert Andy Brassell claiming the 18-year-old forward would be a 'fantastic fit' for the Premier League.
Mbaye's Frustration at PSG
According to Brassell, Mbaye is 'clearly unhappy' with his lack of regular first-team football at PSG. In a squad featuring Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Desire Doue and Bradley Barcola, the Senegal international made only one Champions League start and ten appearances in Ligue 1 this season.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Brassell said: 'He has made it clear through his agents that he is considering his future. He's got two years left on the first professional contract he signed with PSG. He wants to play. He wants more game-time. That's understandable.'
Aston Villa's Interest
Brassell confirmed that Premier League clubs are interested, with Aston Villa 'sniffing around' the player. He believes Mbaye would fit well into Unai Emery's system, particularly with Villa returning to the Champions League next season.
'You look at Villa returning to the Champions League, hoping to step up a level… they work around having a dynamic midfield. I think it would be really interesting seeing him in front of Boubacar Kamara. The fact he can play in those wide roles as well… the sky is the limit. He's got so many strings to his bow,' Brassell added.
World Cup Involvement
Mbaye is currently away with Senegal at the World Cup, where he scored in a 3-1 loss to France. The speculation around his future has intensified during the tournament, with Villa reportedly monitoring his situation closely.
Brassell expects Mbaye to eventually end up in the Premier League, predicting that PSG may insert a buy-back clause in any deal. 'He's so mature for his age. I expect him to end up in the Premier League at some point. And I imagine PSG will insert some kind of buy-back clause because he's got the personality to succeed at a club like that,' he said.
Potential Impact at Villa
If signed, Mbaye would add depth to Villa's attacking options as they prepare for a Champions League campaign. His versatility across wide roles and maturity beyond his years make him an attractive prospect for Emery's squad.
