In a recent print edition, Record mentioned that Aston Villa are in advanced talks to land Sporting winger Pedro Goncalves. It has been stated that the Villans have identified the Portuguese winger as a target for the upcoming transfer window.
Goncalves’ Excellent Form In Liga Portugal This Season
Goncalves has enjoyed an outstanding campaign at the Portuguese club after putting in a lot of impressive displays on the left side of their attack. The Chaves-born talent has scored 20 goals and picked up 15 assists for Sporting this season across all fronts.
The 24-year-old has been a consistent performer for his team in the final third as he is averaging 3.2 shots, 2.2 key passes, 1.1 crosses and 1.3 dribbles per game in Liga Portugal. He has even been accurate when distributing the ball in the opponent’s half, based on his pass completion rate of 81.3% in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Estádio José Alvalade is set to run out in the summer of 2026. Hence, Aston Villa will have to make a sizable offer if they want to convince Sporting to part ways with their prized asset.
What Will Goncalves Add To Aston Villa Boss Unai Emery’s Team?
Goncalves can create space for himself to get a few strikes in at goal. The Portuguese talent is a decent dribbler with the ball and has got the vision to create a few clear-cut chances for others around him in the opponent’s half.
Goncalves is primarily a left-sided wide player but can also function on the right flank or play in the number ten position if his manager asks him to do so. He has done well to chip in by scoring and creating his fair share of goals in the final third.
We can expect Goncalves to add more goals and creativity to Aston Villa head coach Unai Emery’s frontline. He has what it takes to help the Villans push for European football in the Premier League over the next few years.
At 24, Goncalves has his best years ahead of him which makes him a great option for the West Midlands club to consider in this off-season.
