Exclusive: Aston Villa update on blockbuster De Bruyne and Marco Asensio deals
Aston Villa are exploring a blockbuster deal for Kevin De Bruyne as an alternative to signing Marco Asensio permanently, sources have told Football Insider.
Asensio, 29, made a sensational early impact on loan at Villa but he has gone off the boil in recent weeks and the club are not convinced about the costs of signing him permanently.
De Bruyne, 33, will leave Man City at the end of the season and has made it clear he was pushed out by the club – who declined to offer him a contract renewal.
Multiple offers are expected for the legendary playmaker, including from Major League Soccer club Inter Miami, but he is also attracted by the possibility of remaining in the Premier League.
Aston Villa could abandon Asensio deal and sign De Bruyne
Villa believe signing De Bruyne on a free transfer could be a better deal than the fee and wages needed to lure Asensio from Paris Saint-Germain.
The Spain international’s eight-goal return from 17 appearances is impressive, but De Bruyne’s all-round influence makes an attractive alternative for Monchi and Unai Emery.
| x | De Bruyne | Asensio |
| Appearances (Starts) | 24 (16) | 9 (5) |
| Minutes Played | 1457 | 480 |
| Goals | 3 | 3 |
| Assists | 7 | 1 |
| Yellow Cards | 2 | 1 |
City’s legendary midfielder has won six Premier League titles at the Etihad Stadium and could win his final trophy with the club in the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace next month.
He has scored five goals and notched eight goals in 35 appearances across all competitions for City this season but has begun to struggle with persistent injuries as he enters his twilight years.
Aston Villa sit seventh in the Premier League and are likely to play European football next season – and could yet secure Champions League qualification with a top-five finish.
Aston Villa ready to sell Bailey
Meanwhile, Football Insider has revealed (30 April) that Aston Villa plan to accept offers for winger Leon Bailey this summer.
Emery is keen to offload Bailey, 27, and bring in a new wide forward capable of providing more cutting edge.
He has just two goals and four assists in 37 appearances across all competitions this season.
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