In a recent tweet, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano claimed that Aston Villa have identified Rennes winger Jeremy Doku as a target. It has been stated that the Villans are eyeing a move to bring the Belgian talent to Villa Park during this summer transfer window.
EXCL: Aston Villa have included Jeremy Doku in their shortlist for new winger as option in case Moussa Diaby deal won’t happen. ??? #AVFC
Priority remains Diaby after €35m plus add ons bid rejected. Aston Villa will bid again for sure.
Doku, another name being explored. pic.twitter.com/ybuWkCIxss
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 16, 2023
Doku’s Impressive Run Of Form In Ligue 1
Doku enjoyed a decent campaign at the French club as he was responsible for putting in a few eye-catching displays on the right flank. The Belgian wide player banged in seven goals and picked up four assists in 35 matches for Rennes last season in various competitions.
The 21-year-old was a consistent performer in the final third based on his average of 0.9 shots, 1.0 key passes and 3.3 dribbles per 90 minutes in Ligue 1. He was even accurate when distributing possession in the opponent’s half after making 86.4% of his attempted passes in the top tier of French football (stats via whoscored).
His current deal at the French club will expire in the summer of 2025. Thus, the Villans would have to make a sizable offer if they want to recruit Doku ahead of the new campaign.
What Will Doku Add To Aston Villa Head Coach Unai Emery’s Team?
Doku is proficient at finding space for himself to get a few strikes in on-target. He has got the vision to engineer a few decent chances in the final third and can make a few driving runs with the ball out on the flanks. The Belgian sensation is primarily a right-winger but can also as a left-sided wide player if asked to do so. However, he needs to work on improving his productivity up top.
We can expect Doku to add more firepower to Aston Villa‘s frontline. He might even help Unai Emery’s side challenge for a top-half finish in the Premier League next season.
However, only time will tell whether Doku can adapt to the physicality and high intensity of English football if the Villans manage to bring him on board in this ongoing transfer window.
At 21, Doku has got the potential to become one of the best players in his position someday. Therefore, he would be an excellent, long-term acquisition for the West Midlands club this summer.
