Aston Villa Gains Upper Hand in Pursuit of Danilho Doekhi

Aston Villa’s Transfer Activity

According to reports from German sources, Aston Villa has edged ahead of Leeds United in their chase for Danilho Doekhi, a standout player from the Bundesliga.

The club’s January transfer window has been quite eventful, marked by the reunion with Tammy Abraham, and the addition of Alysson and Brian Madjo. Leon Bailey has made his return from a loan stint at Roma, while Donyell Malen has departed for the same club.

Malen’s Loan Agreement

Malen has joined Roma on an initial loan arrangement, with sources from Sky Sports indicating that the deal could be made permanent for around £21.6 million (€25 million / $30 million) if specific criteria are fulfilled.

Further Transfers on the Horizon

In addition to the signings of Abraham and Bailey, Aston Villa is also on the verge of bringing back midfielder Douglas Luiz. The Brazilian’s temporary contract with Nottingham Forest has been terminated, enabling him to rejoin Villa Park. This will also be structured as an initial loan deal, which includes an option to buy for approximately £21 million (€24 million / $29 million) with additional incentives.

Doekhi’s Transfer Situation

German newspaper Bild has reported that Union Berlin’s Doekhi is the next target for Villa’s coach, Unai Emery. It is now stated that Doekhi will indeed leave Union, as he is now in the last six months of his contract.

While he could leave the Bundesliga club for free this summer, Villa aims to secure a bargain deal this January.

Doekhi’s Likely Departure and Competition from Leeds

As a key player for Union Berlin, losing Doekhi would be a significant setback for the team, and current indications suggest that Villa is his most probable destination, surpassing Leeds United in the race for his signature.

Leeds has shown considerable interest in the Dutch defender but seems to be positioned to lose out to Villa, which is currently in a strong form under Emery.

According to Leeds expert James Marshment, although the club is genuinely interested in Doekhi, they have opted to focus on securing a new center-forward instead.

Family Ties Could Play a Role

Daniel Farke’s side has decided to hold off on their pursuit of Doekhi until the summer, which could allow Villa to capitalize on the opportunity sooner. The report mentions that Villa’s chances might be enhanced by family connections, as Doekhi is related to Lamare Bogarde.

Reports about Doekhi’s next steps have been abundant throughout the January transfer window, with initial insights suggesting he is eager for a move to Elland Road.

Concerns for Aston Villa

In the meantime, Villa faces the potential challenge of losing one of its key players to fellow Premier League side, Liverpool.