According to Birmingham Live, Aston Villa have received a significant boost in the pursuit of Brentford striker Neal Maupay as Sheffield United completed the signing of Lys Mousset from Bournemouth. Maupay was a subject of interest from Sheffield this summer. But, with the newly-promoted club settling for Mousset, Villa are now clear to pursue the Frenchman who scored 25 goals last season.
What Maupay’s potential addition to the clubs means for the other strikers
It seems Aston Villa manager Dean Smith is keen to sign another striker, even though he shattered the club record fee to sign Wesley earlier this summer. The Brazilian is expected to become Villa’s spearhead in attack next season with Jonathan Kodija being the likely alternative.
However, the potential addition to Maupay will bring Kodija down the pecking order. The 29-year-old did, however, scored nine goals in the Championship last season and will provide Smith with an additional option in the striking department.
Keinan Davis, however, might have to settle for a loan move to a lower division club if he is to find regular game-time next season. Alternatively, he could remain at Villa Park, but it’s unlikely he will be given the nod ahead of the offensive trifecta of Wesley, Maupay and Kodija.
Where does he fit in Smith’s system?
As mentioned earlier, Maupay could become an understudy to this summer’s star recruit Wesley in the number nine position. That means the 22-year-old is likely to spend his time as a benchwarmer until he makes a significant impact.
Unfortunately for the Frenchman, manager Smith is far too stubborn when it comes to sticking with one formation, much like Napoli coach Carlo Ancelotti. Hence, he has no scope of starting alongside Wesley in a two-man offensive setup as the 48-year-old often employs a 4-2-3-1 setup.
But, one thing is for sure – Maupay’s presence in the team will force Wesley to make a quick impact at Villa Park next season. Failing which, the Championship striker could receive enough opportunities to impress the onlookers.
Is Maupay a sensible option for Aston Villa?
After signing the inexperienced Wesley, splashing the cash on an equally inexperienced striker might turn out to be a gamble from Aston Villa. The 22-year-old has never played in the Premier League and could struggle to get to grips with the fast-paced nature of top-flight football.
Therefore, it would perhaps be a more logical option for the Villans to pursue a more experienced striker, who could spearhead the attack with aplomb next season. Maupay would have suited more as an alternative to Wesley signing rather than a complementary one for the ex-Brugge star.
