Aston Villa face tough Bissouma competition as Champions League side eye Brighton star
Brighton midfielder Yves Bissouma has reportedly been identified by Monaco as a potential replacement for Aurelien Tchouameni, which could be bad news for Aston Villa.
Bissouma has been a standout player over the past few seasons for Brighton. As such, he is now being linked with the next step in his career. He is believed to be a top target for Aston Villa.
Although Brighton finished above Villa in the 2021-22 Premier League, Steven Gerrard’s side have big ambitions. Bissouma is someone they admire.
Even though they have already agreed the signing of Boubacar Kamara, Villa may be in the market for Bissouma still. However, they now face competition from Monaco.
According to Fabrice Hawkins, the Mali international has now become a target for Monaco. Behind that link is the speculation regarding Tchouameni.
The Frenchman has performed exceedingly well for Monaco over the past couple of seasons. He appears to have a very high ceiling and could earn a big move this summer. Real Madrid seem to be his most likely takers.
Tchouameni would leave a tough void for Monaco to fill. But they are considering Bissouma as someone up to the task of replacing him.
The 25-year-old previously gained experience in Ligue 1 while playing for Lille. He was in their first-team squad for two seasons, amassing 55 appearances in all competitions.
Bissouma earned his Premier League move as a result and has not looked back. But after four seasons with Brighton, it could be time for him to move on.
Whether he returns to Ligue 1 or opts for a different experience in England with someone like Villa remains to be seen.
Hawkins has also confirmed that Villa remain in the hunt for Bissouma, who has several offers coming his way.
His contract at the Amex Stadium is due to expire in 2023, so it may be best for Brighton to sell him this summer.
Monaco move could be tempting for Bissouma
Bissouma could have a few options to consider. Moving to Monaco may be an interesting one, though.
Such a move would allow him to play in the Champions League. Monaco finished third in Ligue 1 this season, earning a place in the qualifiers for next term.
And if he is going there to replace someone as influential as Tchouameni, it is likely he would have a big role of responsibility.
That said, he may not be ready to leave the Premier League behind just yet. Villa may be another stepping stone for the path he is capable of, but their project is certainly an interesting one.
They have spent a lot of money over the past couple of transfer windows. Yet they still need to find the right balance for all the pieces to fall into place.
Adding someone like Bissouma would give them further quality in Gerrard’s former position of midfield. However, competing with Monaco may be tough.
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