Aston Villa is reportedly stepping up efforts to sign Galatasaray’s talented winger, Baris Alper Yilmaz, as their second addition of the January transfer window, following the acquisition of Donyell Malen from Borussia Dortmund.
Malen, returning to English football after time at Arsenal’s academy, shared his excitement about joining Unai Emery’s ambitious side. “It’s a dream come true. I’ve been in the Arsenal Academy, and it was always a dream to play here. I’m very happy,” said the Dutch international.
Despite bolstering their attacking ranks with Malen, Villa is keen to add Yilmaz, with reports suggesting stiff competition from Newcastle United, West Ham United, and Everton. Turkish outlet Hurriyet indicates that Emery’s side sees the 24-year-old as an ideal fit to enhance their attacking dynamics.
Competition for Yilmaz
Newcastle is eyeing Yilmaz as cover for Alexander Isak, with Callum Wilson struggling with injuries and Miguel Almiron linked to a move to Atlanta United. Meanwhile, West Ham, hit hard by long-term injuries to Michail Antonio, Jarrod Bowen, and Niclas Füllkrug, also needs reinforcements, with Graham Potter recently deploying Mohammed Kudus as a makeshift striker. Everton, under the guidance of David Moyes, are desperately seeking an answer to their goal-scoring woes, having managed just 15 goals in 20 league games.
Villa, already boasting Ollie Watkins, Jhon Duran, and a host of versatile wingers like Leon Bailey, Morgan Rogers, and Malen, believe Yilmaz could bring a new dimension to their attack. Bailey’s inconsistent form has reportedly heightened Emery’s desire to secure Yilmaz, who is valued at around £25m.
Yilmaz’s Rising Profile
A graduate of the Ankara Demirspor academy, Yilmaz has flourished at Galatasaray since joining in 2021. Known primarily as a winger, his versatility has seen him fill roles as a central forward and, on occasion, as a full-back. His first two seasons were marked by steady progress, including 10 goals and nine assists during Galatasaray’s back-to-back title-winning campaigns.
This season, however, Yilmaz has stepped up his performance, netting 10 goals in 18 league appearances. His stellar form during Turkey’s Euro 2024 campaign also drew attention, with the winger praised for his tireless work rate, lightning pace, and ability to create space for teammates, despite not recording a goal or assist.
Aston Villa’s Ambitious Plans
Unai Emery sees Yilmaz as a player who can elevate Villa’s chances of returning to the Premier League’s top four. Galatasaray, however, is holding firm, having rejected a €20m bid from Lazio, with the club reportedly demanding at least €30m (£25m) for their prized asset.
The addition of Yilmaz would complement Emery’s long-term vision, ensuring Villa has the depth and quality to compete both domestically and in Europe. With the January transfer window still open, all eyes are on Villa Park to see if they can secure the dynamic Turkish international.