Tottenham midfielder has become a coveted commodity late in the transfer window.
Tottenham Hotspur have overhauled their squad under Roberto De Zerbi, bringing in six new faces and moving on players in double digits.
Before going on a spending spree, Spurs released Yves Bissouma after his contract expired at the end of June. They also decided against triggering the buy option clause in Joao Palhinha’s loan deal, resulting in the defensive midfielder returning to Bayern Munich after the 2025/26 campaign finished.
Palhinha has since been linked with several clubs. Aston Villa were interested in signing the Portuguese international. The player had even agreed personal terms with Aston Villa, but Bayern Munich rejected the Premier League club’s loan proposal. And now with the 31-year-old keen to reunite with Marco Silva at Benfica, Aston Villa have switched their attention to the Tottenham midfielder.
Aston Villa eye move for Tottenham midfielder
The Villans have so far signed six players this summer, with the exciting arrivals of the likes of Alejandro Garnacho and Joao Gomes. On Wednesday, they have also confirmed the arrivals of Matteo Ruggeri and Zion Suzuki. But they are not done yet.
According to an exclusive report from CaughtOffside, Aston Villa have ‘serious’ interest in Tottenham midfielder Pape Matar Sarr. Unai Emery has identified the 23-year-old as a midfield target following the long-term injury to Amadou Onana.
Pape Matar Sarr’s future at White Hart Lane has become uncertain following the big-money signings of Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes. Roberto De Zerbi has greater midfield depth now heading into the new season, while Sarr needs regular game time to continue his upward trajectory. So, the Senegalese international has reasons to leave the club, and he has no shortage of suitors.
Everton view the 23-year-old as a long-term replacement for his compatriot Idrissa Gueye, whereas Saudi Pro League club Al Ahli are exploring a late move for him. Meanwhile, Villa have been tracking the player since his time with FC Metz in France.
Previously valued at £30 million, Tottenham are now demanding much more. The report adds the North London club now wants closer to £50m to sanction Sarr’s departure. Given the player’s age, quality, top-flight experience and international pedigree, the N17 chiefs are perhaps right to raise his valuation.
From Villa’s perspective, they will be able to offer Sarr continuity in the Premier League and a platform to hone his skill set. The Senegalese star would also get the chance to compete with Europe’s best players in the Champions League in the upcoming campaign. That said, if Emery’s club are indeed keen on the player, they must table an offer that meets Tottenham’s latest £50m valuation.
