Aston Villa have been given fresh encouragement in their pursuit of Ibrahim Mbaye after Fabrizio Romano reported that the winger will leave Paris Saint-Germain this summer.
The 18-year-old has attracted interest from several Premier League and Bundesliga clubs following his breakthrough in France.
Villa are among the sides to have explored a move as Unai Emery looks to strengthen his attacking options.
Romano reports that agent Jorge Mendes is now in control of Mbaye’s future, with PSG prepared for the Senegal international to depart.
That development gives Villa an opportunity to advance their interest, although it cannot be viewed as a complete green light.
PSG still hold a strong contractual position and are expected to demand a substantial fee.
Mbaye departure opens door for Villa
Mbaye made 32 appearances in all competitions last season, contributing six goals and assists as he became increasingly involved under Luis Enrique.
He then enhanced his reputation at the World Cup, appearing four times for Senegal and scoring against France on his tournament debut.
His speed, direct running and ability to operate from either flank fit Villa’s search for another wide attacker.
Fabrizio Romano has now confirmed that Mbaye is expected to leave PSG, with Mendes working to identify his next club.
Premier League and Bundesliga teams are interested, so Villa will not have a free run at the teenager.
Manchester City, Tottenham and clubs in Germany have also been linked with a move.
PSG reportedly value Mbaye between €40million and €50million. His contract runs until 2028, preventing interested clubs from negotiating a cut-price transfer.
Mendes relationship could help Villa
Villa’s developing relationship with Mendes may prove useful.
João Gomes is represented by the Portuguese agent and is set to join Villa from Wolverhampton Wanderers after completing his medical.
That negotiation has already created a direct working relationship between Mendes and Villa’s recruitment team.
It does not guarantee an agreement for another client, but established contact could help Villa understand Mbaye’s expectations and the competition surrounding him.
As Read Aston Villa previously reported, Mbaye had already indicated a willingness to consider leaving Paris in search of more regular football.
Villa can offer a clear development route under Emery, Champions League involvement and the chance to compete in the Premier League.
Mbaye would not necessarily arrive as an immediate replacement for Morgan Rogers. He is younger and far less experienced in senior football.
However, Arsenal’s pursuit of Rogers has increased the need for Villa to keep alternative attacking options under consideration.
Villa still face an expensive negotiation
The suggestion that Villa have been given a green light needs some caution.
PSG may be willing to sell, but their reported asking price places Mbaye among the most expensive teenage players in Europe.
Villa must also decide whether to invest such a large fee in potential rather than a more established winger.
The club are already committing significant funds to Gomes and Johan Manzambi, while talks have also advanced over Pervis Estupiñán.
As Read Aston Villa noted following Mbaye’s World Cup goal, his performances have only increased the attention around him.
Villa’s interest is credible and PSG’s stance has improved their chances.
The Mendes connection offers another useful route into negotiations. The decisive questions will be whether Villa accept PSG’s valuation and whether Mbaye views Emery’s project as the best next step.
