Aston Villa given encouragement in Noni Madueke pursuit – new Chelsea issue emerges
Aston Villa have been given encouragement in their pursuit of Noni Madueke this summer, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that Chelsea have raised concerns about the 23-year-old’s attitude in training and whether he fits into Enzo Maresca’s plans.
Meanwhile, he is frustrated about his inconsistent playing time at Stamford Bridge and is believed to be open to a move which would see him play more regularly.
He made his England debut under Lee Carsley earlier this season, and now wants to become a regular for his country under Thomas Tuchel.
This comes after former Villa scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Villa want to sign Madueke after the success of Marcus Rashford since his arrival in January.
They are expected to be rivalled in their interest, however, with a number of clubs across Europe believed to be interested in a potential deal.
Aston Villa eye Noni Madueke deal amid Chelsea concerns
Madueke remains highly-rated among a number of interested clubs despite questions having been asked about his role and performances at Chelsea.
The 23-year-old has made 21 starts across all competitions under Enzo Maresca this season, but there is a growing feeling he could be set to leave Stamford Bridge.
Unai Emery wants to add pace to his squad this summer as a result of Rashford’s impact on the left-hand side, while a new right-winger has been a long-term target.
Brown told Football Insider in February that Villa will accept offers for Leon Bailey this summer and plan to replace him with a new option on the right.
However, the final decision about Madueke’s future will be made by Chelsea as he still has five years remaining on his deal at Stamford Bridge.
Marcus Rashford must take pay cut to leave Man United
While work begins on signing another Rashford-style winger for the right-hand side, the Man United loanee himself has been at the centre of speculation.
Football Insider revealed on 3 April that Rashford must take a pay-cut to join Villa this summer given concerns about the overall cost of the move.
The forward has a £40million option to buy in his loan contract, but concerns about his lofty wages have made the deal difficult for Emery’s side.
This comes after Football Insider revealed on 31 March that Villa face paying £130million over five years in wages and transfer fee if they sign Rashford at his current £350,000-a-week salary.
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