Aston Villa lining up approach for £67.5m West Ham target after PSR boost

Sporting Lisbon midfielder Pedro Goncalves could be on the move this summer with Aston Villa and West Ham United displaying strong interest.

The former Portugal international, controversially snubbed for the 2024 UEFA European Championships in Germany, has regularly been likened to Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes. Goncalves contributed an impressive 18 goals and 17 assists in 49 games across all competitions last season as Sporting clinched the Liga Portugal title.

Local outlet A Bola reports Villa, who have been heavily linked with Goncalves over recent windows, are considering reigniting their interest. It’s stated that no proposal has been made as of yet but the Villans are weighing up changing that by making an official approach. As are Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen.

West Ham, meanwhile, are claimed to be eyeing a move for Goncalves in a bid to challenge Villa for the Portuguese’s signature. The Hammers are eager to bolster their attacking options as they look to close the gap to the Premier League top six under new manager Julen Lopetegui.

An almighty wad of cash will need to be coughed up to acquire Goncalves’ services, however, as Sporting are said to be holding out for around €80 million (£67.5 million) to let their number eight depart. That price tag could prove too substantial.

PSR weight lifted off Aston Villa’s shoulders

Unai Emery has been delighted by the news that Villa can now spend a little more freely as the Villans have now formalised enough sales to comply with the Premier League’s profit and sustainability regulations.

The £37.5 million signing of Ian Maatsen is expected to kick-start major business but the likes of Goncalves - or Maximilian Beier - could be next. Emery is determined to build a squad capable of continuing Villa’s marvellous upward trajectory.