In a recent report, Sportitalia mentioned that Aston Villa are set to rival Manchester United for Inter Milan defender Stefan de Vrij. It is understood that the Villans will have to compete with the Red Devils along with Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur in pursuit of the Dutch centre-back this summer.
De Vrij’s Impressive Form In Italian Football Last Season
De Vrij had a solid campaign at San Siro as he manage to produce a run of impressive defensive displays for Inter over the past ten months. The former Feyenoord talent participated in 41 matches for the Italian club last season, netting one goal and securing one assist across all competitions.
The Netherlands international has been a rock at the back based on his average of 1.3 tackles, 1.1 interceptions and 1.7 clearances per 90 minutes in Serie A. He was even tidy with his ball distribution after making 91.8% of his attempted passes in the Italian top-flight (stats via whoscored).
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Aston Villa To Rival Man United For De Vrij: Is He Worth The Fight?
De Vrij can time his tackles well to secure possession back for his side on the defensive third of the pitch. He doesn’t mind clearing the danger when the opposition are on the front foot. The Dutch defensive ace excels at playing his way out from the back and can even use his strong 1.89m frame to dominate the opposition attackers in the air. He has got a wealth of experience at the top level.
At 30, de Vrij has still got a few years left in his locker to play at a high level. Thus, the Villans should prioritize on getting a deal done for the Dutchman this summer.
De Vrij is well-worth the fight as he will enhance the overall quality of Aston Villa head coach Steven Gerrard‘s first XI. He could even help the West Midlands club challenge for a European spot in the Premier League next season. Hence, Gerrard would be wise to give it his all to bring de Vrij to Villa Park during this summer transfer period.
