Aston Villa and AFC Bournemouth are in the picture to sign Club Atlético Independiente’s Kevin Lomónaco this summer.
That’s according to Oviedo based newspaper La Nueva España, and they mention Aston Villa and Bournemouth when covering Real Oviedo’s interest in the centre-back.
The 23-year-old initially joined Club Atlético Independiente on loan in August of last year. His stay was made permanent later that year and he signed a contract until December 2027.
Last month, Lomónaco received his first call up from Lionel Scaloni but he’s yet to make debut for Argentina. His performances for the club attracted interest from a few European clubs, including Real Betis, Barcelona, Real Oviedo and West Ham United.
Real Oviedo majority shareholder Jesús Martínez is in talks with the Argentine club to sign the centre-back. His salary and fee would make the operation complicated for the La Liga newcomers.
In addition to this, La Nueva España points out about the competition they will face from other clubs. They state Aston Villa and Bournemouth are the 23-year-old’s new suitors as they have joined the battle to sign him in the ‘last few hours’.
The report adds Club Atlético Independiente are ‘looking to get the biggest slice of the deal’. He has a $20m [€17m current exchange rate] release clause, which they haven’t taken into account.
Last month, Club Atlético Independiente general secretary Daniel Seoane told Olé that Lomónaco won’t leave for less than his release clause.
In other words, Aston Villa, Bournemouth or another club have to offer $20m to buy him this summer.