A transfer rumour which seemed to become locked in an echo chamber during the 2020 close season transfer window, was certainly that of Milot Rashica.
The Werder Bremen winger had been tipped for a high profile switch to AC Milan, but when interest ebbed, Rashica found himself in a no-mans land of offers.
The Kosovan, a stand-out player within a struggling Bremen side last term, continues to be linked with a switch to Villa Park. The Bundesliga side’s fortunes have been steadier so far this term and are currently on a 5 game run of draws that sees them mid-table in the German top-flight.
Whilst Villa’s interest and intent is of some debate, what is known is that Rashica was originally holding out for a move to a top European club, with a big wage demand a further hurdle.
Things have moved along somewhat since the links to Villa Park earlier this year, with prudent transfer business having seen the side start it’s second PL season brightly.
Whilst the club’s home results have left much to be desired, good early form, alongside high profile victories over Champions Liverpool and Arsenal, have raised Villa’s appeal.
Though we must temper our expectations having survived by the skin of our teeth in 2019/20 (West Ham 1-1 Villa), it has been an eye-brow raiser to watch Villa threaten the upper top half of the table. This also makes it an enticing prospect at to what further reinforcements could result in.
The question is now about how Villa support Dean Smith to keep the side at the right end of the table and perhaps capitalise upon a number of other clubs being in a state of transition.
Supporters will be buoyed by the visible improvements in performance and results, but it would be remiss to overlook the fact that beyond the starting XI that quality becomes decidedly thin. Injuries and suspension could certainly take their toll across a season that may yet be unpredictable in it’s length.
Whilst the probability of Milot Rashica joining Villa remains an unknown, it’s therefore of little surprise to see the 24 year old once more linked to B6.
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