Unai Emery is plotting a major overhaul of his Aston Villa attack, with RB Leipzig’s Romulo Cardoso identified as the ideal successor to fan favourite Ollie Watkins .
The 24 year old Brazilian has taken the Bundesliga by storm since joining Leipzig last summer as Benjamin Sesko’s replacement, contributing 7 goals and 4 assists in 21 league games . Now Villa want him at the Holte End.
THE WATKINS SITUATION
Let’s be honest, it’s been a difficult season for the England man. Eight goals in 27 Premier League games, a performance against Chelsea that attracted criticism, and persistent links with a move away .
Newcastle are circling. The Magpies have reportedly opened internal talks over a summer deal, viewing Watkins as a replacement for the struggling Nick Woltemade . Villa are prepared to sell for around £30m, a fraction of what they’ll need to spend on a replacement .
THE CARDOSO PROFILE
Standing at 1.93m, the so called “Brazilian Tower” wins 65% of his aerial duels, making him one of the best in Germany at bullying centre backs . But he’s more than just a target man, scouts rave about his first time finishing and calmness under pressure.
Villa view him as a “purebred No.9” with the physicality and technical attributes to thrive in the Premier League . His style offers something different to Watkins, more hold up play, more presence in the box, more aerial threat.
THE PRICE TAG
Leipzig know English clubs are interested and have hiked their asking price to between €55/60m (£46/50m) . That’s a significant jump from his €30m market value, but a potential Brazil call up before the World Cup could push it even higher .
Villa have the financial resources, especially if they secure Champions League football. But it’s a big outlay for a player with one season in a top five league.
THE COMPETITION
Fulham, Brentford, Arsenal and Newcastle are all watching Cardoso’s situation . Villa aren’t alone in their admiration. But Emery’s project and the prospect of European football could give them an edge.
THE VERDICT
Watkins has been a fantastic servant 16 goals and eight assists last season, the focal point of Villa’s rise . But at 30, with his form dipping and Newcastle lurking, this might be the right time to cash in.
Cardoso at 24 offers a younger profile, a different skill set, and potential resale value. It’s exactly the kind of smart, forward thinking recruitment Villa have specialised under Emery.
£50m is a lot. But if he’s the real deal, it could be money well spent.