RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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Aston Villa plotting move for Ligue 1 ace Esteban Lepaul
Aston Villa are one of the clubs tracking Rennes striker Esteban Lepaul, according to L’Equipe .
The Villains could use another centre-forward with Ollie Watkins angling to leave the Birmingham-based club for Saudi Arabia this summer.
There is also some uncertainty regarding the future of second-choice striker Tammy Abraham, who could leave after only a few months at Villa Park.
Lepaul has emerged as a target after finishing Ligue 1 top scorer last season with 21 goals and five assists.
The Aston Villa target started the current campaign with a goal against Paris Saint-Germain in their League opener.
Villa will be taking note of the Frenchman’s prowess in the box, but they are not alone, with Manchester City also reportedly following his situation.
His club is currently unwilling to sell under any circumstances, but the right offer might get them to change their tune.
The Villains desperately need reinforcement following their horror show Premier League opener, and Lepaul could be an exciting pick-up.
Lepaul looks like exactly the kind of striker Villa should be exploring.
Brilliant technically, he offers superb hold-up play, is strong in duels, and has the aerial ability that could add another dimension to Villa’s attack.
Most importantly, he has a natural sense for where the goal is.
That makes him particularly intriguing if Villa can also land Nicolas Jackson , another striker they are reportedly tracking.
The combination could prove deadly. Lepaul could provide the physical presence, link-up play and finishing.
Meanwhile, Jackson’s pace, movement and ability to stretch defences would give opponents a completely different problem to solve.
With Watkins’ future uncertain and Abraham potentially on his way out, Unai Emery needs more firepower.
Lepaul would be a bold signing if Villa can find the funds to convince the French club to sell.
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