A potential Ruben Vargas transfer would give Aston Villa another versatile attacker, but the Sevilla winger’s underlying numbers raise questions over a reported £17million deal.
Sevilla are prepared to consider offers for the Switzerland international. Aston Villa, Brighton and Newcastle United have all been named as potential destinations by The Guardian.
Vargas strengthened his reputation during Switzerland’s run to the World Cup quarter-finals. The 27-year-old scored twice, provided one assist and converted the decisive penalty during their last-16 victory.
However, Unai Emery must decide whether those performances justify Sevilla’s increased valuation.
Ruben Vargas transfer offers Aston Villa useful flexibility
Vargas primarily plays from the left but can also operate on the opposite flank or behind a striker. His ability to receive possession between the lines could give Emery another option against teams defending deep.
The winger produced three goals and six assists across 25 Sevilla appearances last season. He also created 41 chances, suggesting he can provide opportunities for Ollie Watkins and Villa’s other forwards.
Villa are continuing to reshape their wide options after signing Alejandro Garnacho. Meanwhile, the Leon Bailey transfer to Hull City is moving closer, potentially creating room for another winger.
Vargas would provide experience in La Liga, the Bundesliga and international football. He also possesses the tactical flexibility Emery regularly values in attacking players.
Why Aston Villa should be cautious
The concern surrounds whether Vargas can consistently influence Premier League matches.
His three club goals last season represented a modest return for an attacking player. Vargas also completed only 73.12% of his passes across all competitions, placing him close to the bottom of Sevilla’s squad for that measure.
His duel numbers provide another concern. Vargas won 112 of his 235 individual contests, producing a success rate of 47.66%. Emery expects his wide players to compete without possession and help Villa control transitions.
There were encouraging defensive figures. Vargas won 19 of his 26 attempted tackles, while his chance creation supports the argument that he can contribute around the penalty area.
However, Villa must judge whether those qualities are strong enough to compensate for his limited scoring output and inconsistent involvement.
Villa have better long-term options available
The reported £17million valuation is not excessive for an experienced international. However, Vargas will turn 28 in August and may offer limited future resale value.
Villa have already demonstrated that they are willing to invest more heavily in younger attackers. Their €30million offer for Palmeiras winger Allan was rejected, but the approach revealed the profile Emery is considering.
Allan is five years younger and can play from the right before moving into central areas. Vargas would represent a cheaper and more experienced alternative, although his development ceiling appears lower.
A Ruben Vargas transfer could still work if Sevilla reduce their demands. At £17million, Villa risk paying for an impressive World Cup rather than sustained club production.
Emery has improved several players during his time at Villa Park. However, the club should only proceed if Vargas accepts a defined squad role and Sevilla offer more favourable terms.
