Aston Villa expert issues Moussa Dembele claim after source’s reveal – ‘we’re going to the next level’
Gabby Agbonlahor has admitted his doubts about Moussa Dembele’s ability to take Aston Villa “to the next level” if he is to be signed this summer.
The former Villa striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, urged his old side to use Unai Emery’s “knowledge and experience” to find a better solution.
Sources told this site on Thursday (23 February) that the Midlands giants are keeping a close eye on Dembele, 26, ahead of the summer window.
Aston Villa boss Unai Emery is a “big fan” of the Lyon striker – who is out of contract at the end of this season.
Dembele joined the Ligue 1 giants from Celtic in 2018 and has notched 70 goals and 19 assists in 164 appearances for the club.
Ollie Watkins and young January signing Jhon Duran have been tasked with leading the line for the rest of the 2022-23 season, following Danny Ings’ departure to West Ham.
Agbonlahor told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “I do like Dembele, but I feel like this signing has to be right for Aston Villa.
“Watkins has been in great form, so the next striker you bring in has to be even better.
“If we’re going to the next level as a club, we don’t want to be signing players who will keep us in mid-table.
“If we’re serious about breaking into the European places, we need the right striker to take us there.
“I’m not sure Dembele is that player.
“It’ll be difficult, but I trust Emery – with his knowledge and experience – to get someone better in.
“It’s going to take a top, top player to help us get into that top six.”
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