Latest developments
- Aston Villa are chasing AC Milan defender Fiyako Tomori.
- Newcastle and Tottenham have been linked with the Englishman.
- Tomori has recently returned to the Milan line-up.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3/5): Top scout with the news
Aston Villa are one of a number of Premier League sides interested in AC Milan defender Fikayo Tomori as Unai Emery's side look to bolster their defence.
This was reported by footballinsider247.com and their contributor Mick Brown, a former scout for Premier League clubs.
Value (3/5): Back in fashion in Milan
Newcastle's and Tottenham's interest in Tomori was piqued several weeks ago when was struggling for minutes at the San Siro, however, new manager Sergio Conceicao has recently recalled him to the starting XI.
An important player again, Milan are unlikely to let him go for peanuts, and if a bidding war ensues, Villa might have to stump up well over his £18.6 million market valuation.
Suitability (4.5/5): English and European experience
The former Chelsea man has only played 17 times in the Premier League, but knows the English game well and has plenty of European experience, playing 30 times in the UEFA Champions League.
That will prove vital as Villa push for European qualification and extend their Champions League run as long as possible, while a back four used by Villa and Milan means no new system to learn.
Upgrade? (4/5): Healthy competition at CB
Diego Carlos may have departed by the Villans still have a strong crop of centre-backs, with Tyrone Mings, Pau Torres and Ezri Konsa fighting for two spots.
Extra strength in depth is key, though, as Villa seem to be losing momentum in both the league and Europe, and the chance to rotate their defence will be good for Tomori and for Villa.
Logic (3.5/5): No move needed?
In a matter of days, Tomori has gone from forgotten man at Milan to an important player for the Rossoneri again, thus he could well feel more settled, with his contract valid until 2027.
An injury to Torres has made Villa's issue at the back worse, so would make real sense for them to push quickly for a reliable centre-back.
Whisper+ verdict: 18/25
The chances of forcing a move have got smaller, but Villa's need for defenders has got greater, making this one to keep an eye on.
