Aston Villa ready to sit down for transfer talks – Surprise as Emery’s side step up a gear

Nicolò Zaniolo hasn’t managed to regularly impress for Aston Villa after joining them on loan from Galatasaray last summer.

The Italy international’s future could be away from Villa Park, meaning he’ll have to return to his parent club after this season. The Villans, on the other hand, would have to find a replacement for him.

Saturday’s edition of Sabah states Aston Villa are looking at Galatasaray to replace the 24-year-old winger.

Unai Emery’s side have identified Barış Alper Yılmaz as the new target and are keen on signing him in the next window.

Like the former AS Roma man, the Turkey international mainly operates on the right wing, and can play in other attacking positions. He’s also been used as a right and left-back at times this season, with six goals and nine assists from 49 games.

Other clubs have already shown interest in the 23-year-old versatile player and Aston Villa are the latest to be added to this list.

It’s claimed Emery’s side have ‘stepped up a gear’ and ‘will sit down’ with Galatasaray at the end this season to discuss a potential deal.

Barış Alper Yılmaz’s contract lasts until 2027 and Sabah say Galatasaray will need at least €20m for him.