LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 27: Hwang Hee-Chan of Wolverhampton Wanderers celebrates after scoring the team's second goal during the Premier League match between Fulham FC and Wolverhampton Wanderers at Craven Cottage on November 27, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Aston Villa could sign their own Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as Fabrizio Romano claims talks under way for £43m gem
Aston Villa have not had the best start to the summer, with a number of targets eluding them thus far.
Villa wanted to sign Joan Garcia from Espanyol amid doubts over the future of Emiliano Martinez, but he has opted for Barcelona instead.
Sverre Nypan is another player who Villa have missed out on, the Rosenborg prodigy agreeing a move to Manchester City instead.
However, Aston Villa are going again and, according to Fabrizio Romano, have now set their sights on a young player likened to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
Aston Villa in talks over Real Betis gem Jesus Rodriguez
Fabrizio Romano took to X on Friday to report that Villa have begun talks with Real Betis over Jesus Rodriguez.
The transfer insider said Rodriguez is on the shortlist of a number of clubs, but Villa appear to have stolen a march on his other suitors.
“Villa made contact this week to start discussions,” added Romano.
Kulig described the 19-year-old as an “explosive winger” whose strengths include pace, acceleration, dribbling, ball control, bravery, work rate and athleticism.
He also likened Rodriguez to Kvaratskhelia and gave him a rating of 9 out of 10 with regards to his potential for the future.
Rodriguez has already made 36 appearances for Betis, registering nine goals and three assists. He has also won the European Under-19 title with Spain’s U19s.
Rodriguez has a release clause of €50million (£43million), according to Football Espana.
