Steven Gerrard and co recently travelled to watch Marseille star Boubacar Kamara in action, and an Aston Villa transfer could be around the corner.
Villa’s desire to land a top defensive-midfield star has been apparent during Gerrard’s tenure. There have been links to Kalvin Phillips, Rodrigo Bentancur and Yves Bissouma, among others.
Kamara himself has been a target for a while. The Marseille star is reportedly a ‘priority’ target for the summer transfer window.
In fact, Villa apparently offered the 22-year-old a ‘big contract’ not too long ago. Kamara is out of contract in the summer, and will likely move on for free.
There are a number of potential suitors as well as Villa. A host of Premier League sides have been linked, and Atletico Madrid also appear near the top of the pile. Clearly, Kamara is highly sought after.
The 22-year-old has already made 163 appearances for the Marseille. He has contributed to 10 goals during those appearances.
Kamara has been a mainstay of the side this season, only missing four league games. What’s more, he was unavailable for two of those fixtures.
While Villa are being rivalled for his signature, their pursuit appears to have taken a step forwards. RMC Sport reports that Gerrard was present at Marseille’s 3-2 win over Nantes in the week.
Gerrard could have been present to watch a number of players, but previous reports regarding a Villa move for Kamara could mean he was the main purpose for the visit.
And given he has reportedly been offered a contract by Villa, the reasons for being there may have been more than just to watch.
Villa presence could point to positive Kamara progress
Gerrard was not the only Villa representative spotted in the Orange Velodrome. Sporting director Johan Lange and chief executive Christian Purslow were also in attendance.
Rarely would a club’s chief executive be in attendance for a mere scouting mission.
As such, the presence of Purslow, as well as the other parties, could point to progress regarding a move.
Either way, it seems Villa’s interest is substantial, and they are keen on landing Kamara.
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