Aston Villa have emerged as serious contenders in the race to sign Feyenoord right-back Lutsharel Geertruida as they look to bolster their defensive options, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The versatile Dutchman has also attracted interest from German outfit RB Leipzig. The Bundesliga side have had their eyes on the Feyenoord star for some time and even submitted a bid for services last summer.
Geertruida can play right-back, centre-back, and defensive midfield. He has been a standout performer for Feyenoord since breaking into the first team five years ago.
Geertruida notched eight goals and five assists in the Eredivisie while helping the Rotterdam giants keep 15 clean sheets last term.
The 24-year-old’s contract will expire next summer, leaving Feyenoord in a precarious position.
With negotiations over a new deal hitting a stumbling block, the Rotterdam club faces the prospect of losing their prized asset for a small fee.
As a result, a summer departure for Geertruida appears increasingly likely, with Aston Villa and RB Leipzig both keen on securing his services.
Villa have only one senior natural right-back on the books – Matty Cash. The Villains must bolster that position ahead of the upcoming campaign, in which they will play in the UEFA Champions League.
Manager Unai Emery was forced to chuck Ezri Konsa to play right back last term when Cash was out. They desperately need defensive reinforcement.
Villa have been active in the transfer market, reshaping the squad for the arduous season ahead.
Amadou Onana, Ian Maatsen, Cameron Archer, Jaden Philogene, Samuel Iling-Junior, Lewis Dobbin, Enzo Barrenechea, and Ross Barkley already joined the Villains this summer. They are still looking for one or two additions before they close the coffers.
Villa could sign another attacker to compete with Ollie Watkins in the centre-forward position, especially if Jhon Duran leaves. Another winger might also come in before the window shuts.
