There’s a claim in the Turkish media that Aston Villa were showing interest in Fenerbahce youngster Yusuf Akçiçek.
The Premier League side have already looked to Turkey in recent months following links with Kasimpasa defender Yasin Ozcan.
Sabah today report on Aston Villa’s pursuit for Akçiçek and they say the Premier League side tabled an offer for the 18-year-old central defender towards the end of the last transfer window.
However, Fener manager Jose Mourinho blocked Villa’s attempts to sign the youngster as he believes the player is one for the future. The Portuguese coach reportedly highly rates the defender and thinks he has the ability to play for a club like Real Madrid.
Akçiçek impressed during Fenerbahce’s draw with Lyon in the Europa League this week and it seems he’s now forced himself into Mourinho’s plans for the remainder of the season.
There are no reports on whether Aston Villa will make another attempt to sign Akçiçek, but with their focus now on Kasimpasa’s Ozcan this may indicate they’ve moved on from the Fenerbahce player.
The Fener defender has made six appearances this season, scoring one goal. He’s contracted to the Yellow Canaries until June 2028.