In a recent report, journalist Graeme Bailey claimed that Aston Villa are facing tough competition for Sergi Roberto who was released by Barcelona earlier this summer. It is understood that the Villans would have to rival Arsenal, Brentford, Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, Ajax and PSV Eindhoven in pursuit of the Spanish right-back.
Roberto’s Impressive Season At Barcelona
Roberto was a decent performer in Barcelona’s match-day squad in the previous campaign as he put in a series of impressive displays for them in La Liga. The Spanish talent scored three goals and earned three assists in 24 matches for Barca last season in multiple competitions.
The 32-year-old proved his worth by averaging 1.1 tackles, 0.6 interceptions, 0.7 shots and 0.6 key passes per game in La Liga. He was even tidy when distributing the ball after making 90.3% of his attempted passes in the Spanish top flight (stats via whoscored).
Roberto is a free agent at the moment, so it makes sense for the Villans to snap him up on a free transfer later this year.
Will Roberto Be A Good Choice For Aston Villa Boss Unai Emery?
Roberto loves a tackle and can time his challenges well to secure possession back for his team inside his half. He can shoot the ball with venom from long range and has got the eye to set up the odd chance for his teammates in the final third.
The Spanish talent is primarily a right-back but can also function as a box-to-box midfielder or as a defensive midfielder if needed. He would bring more quality and depth to Aston Villa head coach Unai Emery’s squad this off-season.
At 32, Roberto is past his prime but could help the Villans compete across all fronts over the next couple of years. He has got a wealth of experience at the highest level but would need time to settle into life in the Premier League if the West Midlands club manage to sign him on a free transfer this summer. All in all, Roberto would be a great choice for the Villans in the short term as he would help them cope with fixture congestion better next season.
