Report: Aston Villa now want to sign £21m striker although he is keen to join West Ham

Aston Villa now want to sign a new striker – although the player in question is allegedly keen to join West Ham instead.

Unai Emery is blessed with a strong frontline at Villa Park, after Ollie Watkins and Leon Bailey both hit double figures for goals and assists during the 2023/24 campaign.

Even Douglas Luiz managed to do likewise from central midfield – while Moussa Diaby was just a single assist from the achievement.

Despite boasting a very effective attacking department, Emery now wants to bolster his frontline at Aston Villa – although West Ham could have a say in the matter…

Aston Villa want Youssef En-Nesyri

A story by Vamos Mi Sevilla in Spain now claims that Aston Villa want to sign Youssef En-Nesyri.

The Morocco international is described by the Spanish news outlet as being highly likely to depart this summer, as Sevilla need to raise funds.

Vamos Mi Sevilla state that the Spanish outfit have placed a €25m (£21m) price tag on En-Nesyri this summer, and his most likely destination is the Premier League.

Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images

That is a very reasonable asking price for the Sevilla No.15 after he enjoyed a stunning 2023/24 campaign, in which he scored 20 goals in 41 appearances across all competitions.

West Ham in pole position

Aston Villa might struggle to strike an agreement with Sevilla, as West Ham seem best placed to sign En-Nesyri this summer.

A story by El Mira in Spain states that the Moroccan is keen to join the Hammers and reunite with Julen Lopetegui – who he made 115 appearances under at Sevilla, scoring 36 goals.

Furthermore, an update from Caught Offside claimed that West Ham are preparing a £22m bid – which aligns with Sevilla’s asking price – so it would appear Aston Villa have their work cut out to sign the man from Fès this summer.

Photo by David S. Bustamante/Soccrates/Getty Images

Having said that, the Villans can offer En-Nesyri the chance to keep playing in the UEFA Champions League next season after finishing fourth in the Premier League, which could prove to be a decisive factor.

Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as Aston Villa and West Ham battle for the Sevilla talisman.