In a recent report, Sky Sports has revealed that former Aston Villa target Emiliano Buendia could leave Norwich City in January for a fee of around £25m, but it is unclear whether the Villans want to recruit a new winger next month. If they do, then Dean Smith can expect to face competition from Atletico Madrid and Valencia among other clubs from Spain in pursuit of the Argentine playmaker (via Sky Sports).
Buendia’s Excellent Form At Carrow Road This Season
Buendia has impressed a lot of people with his eye-catching performances in the EFL Championship this season. His vital contributions on the offensive end of the field have helped the Norfolk club build a three-point lead at the top of the league standings.
The 23-year-old has banged in five goals and provided six assists in 15 league matches for the Canaries this term. Buendia has done well to make an impact at both ends of the pitch as he is averaging 2.5 tackles, 0.5 interceptions, 1.5 clearances, 2.9 shots, 3.1 key passes, 1.6 crosses and 1.3 dribbles per game in the Championship. However, he could be more careful when distributing the ball from the wide areas after completing 76.5% of his attempted passes in the English second division (stats via whoscored).
Based on his recent form, Buendia deserves a move to a top club as long as he can maintain his good form at the top level. However, Smith has currently got no need to sign a new winger with the likes of Jack Grealish, Bertrand Traoré, Anwar El Ghazi and Trezeguet all playing well at Villa Park this season.
What Does The Argentine Playmaker Offer On The Field?
Buendia has got decent pace in his locker and can make some driving runs with the ball out on the flanks. He has got the vision to play a decisive pass in the final third and can also score his fair share of goals in the attacking third of the pitch.
The Canaries star has shown great work-ethic to track back and defend the opposition runs on the counter. However, he is yet to prove his worth in the Premier League where he has previously struggled to give a good account of himself consistently week in week out.
Should Smith Launch A Move For Buendia This Winter?
At the moment, the Villans have no room in their squad for a new winger as all of Smith’s current options have shown great cohesion that has helped them make a promising start this season. The West Midlands giants do not have the luxury to offer the Argentine wide player regular game time right now, but that could change next summer as Smith looks to build a strong squad for the long-run.
If Buendia is still available for a transfer at the end of this campaign, then Smith should consider launching a move for him. For now, the Villans boss will be better off strengthening some of the other areas of his squad next month.
