Aston Villa 'battling' Champions League rivals to sign powerful and versatile winger

Aston Villa are reportedly ready to battle Tottenham Hotspur to sign versatile Galatasaray winger Baris Alper Yilmaz this summer.

The 23-year-old has been linked with a move to Villa Park for several weeks having impressed scouts with his performances throughout the 2023/24 season. Yilmaz, now a regular starter after featuring off the bench in years gone by, has scored six and assisted nine in 51 games this term.

It’s been a strong period for Galatasaray as the Istanbul-based club are on track to win Süper Lig ahead of rivals Fenerbahce. The powerful and attacking-minded Yilmaz has been a key component to their success.

With 18 appearances across the UEFA Champions League and Europa League across the last two campaigns, Yilmaz would also bring added European pedigree to Villa Park. The 13-time Turkey international would be useful for squad depth too as he can play on either wing, through the centre as an attacking midfielder and striker, or even as a full-back.

There’s a lot to like with Yilmaz and as such there are several clubs after his signature. HITC reports Villa, Tottenham and Manchester United have all had representatives in attendance to watch the player in the last few months.

Yilmaz’s versatility is an attractive trait that sets him apart from other potential transfer targets. Unai Emery likes players with good adaptability, namely Morgan Rogers and Youri Tielemans who were both signed during the Spaniard’s spell.

Competition exists with Tottenham and United both keen but Villa have a decent relationship with Galatasaray from the Nicolo Zaniolo transfer – a possible upperhand. It could even become a double swoop if Villa decide to make Zaniolo’s loan permanent, although that looks unlikely.