Aston Villa are chasing Vasco da Gama youngster Rayan Vitor Simplício Rocha, simply known as Rayan.
The Brazilian club promoted the 18-year-old to their first team in 2023. Since then, he has made 32 appearances, managing three goals and an assist in the process.
His performances have caught the attention of several European clubs, including Aston Villa.
Atenção, Vascaínos! took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to state that Aston Villa, FC Porto, Real Betis, AC Milan and Fiorentina are all interested in the forward.
Both the player’s camp and Vasco da Gama have received requests regarding Rayan. It’s not made clear whether the Villans are one of the clubs to have made contact.
As well as the European sides, the report adds an unnamed Saudi Arabian side is keeping an eye on the Brazil U20 international.
The young attacker’s deal lasts until December 2025. Vasco da Gama president Pedrinho has admitted the need to raise funds, in order to improve their finances.
“The club generates some revenue and need to generate more to honour its commitments and pay salaries on time,” he said, as quoted by O Dia.
“Rayan is an asset to the club. Obviously, some clubs are looking at him, they are interested, and we evaluate the proposal very carefully. A player who can yield good results, not only momentarily, but also for the future, financially. There are discussions.”
Unai Emery’s side can take advantage of Vasco da Gama’s financial situation to sign Rayan, maybe even in January.
