Aston Villa are eyeing a move for Brentford winger Said Benrahma this summer, according to Gregg Evans of The Athletic.
However, they could face competition from Chelsea, as The Guardian report that he is on a shortlist of players interesting the Blues.
Interest From Both Aston Villa and Chelsea in Said Benrahma
Target If Relegation is Avoided
Dean Smith will target the Algerian this summer – only if they are not relegated.
The Villains are currently 19th in the Premier League, two points off of safety ahead of the Premier League restart.
Villa do have previous interest in Benrahma. They had two bids rejected by Brentford for the winger last summer, who played under Dean Smith at Griffin Park.
However, their interest depends on a number of eventualities, none more so than remaining in the Premier League.
Transfer funds may be in short supply at Villa Park this summer following the squad overhaul upon their return to the top-flight.
As a result, it could mean that Jack Grealish is sold in order to raise money for signings this summer. The Algerian would be the perfect replacement for the current Villa captain.
Interest From Chelsea and Several Premier League Clubs
Dean Smith and Aston Villa will face stern competition for the 24-year-old’s signature.
Chelsea, alongside Crystal Palace and West Ham United, are also said to be interested in signing Benrahma.
Frank Lampard is identifying potential replacements for the expected departures of both Pedro and Willian. According to Jacob Steinberg of The Guardian, that shortlist includes the Brentford winger.
While a move to Chelsea would be surprising, Benrahma is more than capable of making the step up to the Premier League.
Having only moved to the Championship side Brentford in 2018, the 24-year-old has earned plenty of plaudits.
The Algerian took little time to adapt to his new surroundings, scoring 11 times and registering 16 assists in his first season.
This season, despite attracting interest from several clubs, that form has continued. He has registered 10 goals from out wide, helping the Bees to fourth place in the Championship.
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