Aston Villa are reportedly stepping up their interest in Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni ahead of the January transfer window.
The 20-year-old has been monitored by Villa since the start of the season, with the club sending representatives to watch him during Benfica’s clash with Porto.
According to Sport Witness, citing O Jogo, Villa were specifically assessing Prestianni in a high-pressure fixture.
The Argentina international responded with an assist despite Benfica losing 3-1.
Aston Villa continue Prestianni checks
Prestianni has started the season strongly with eight goals and three assists in 12 appearances across all competitions.
Villa are expected to continue watching him while he is away with Argentina during the international break.
Tottenham Hotspur and Atletico Madrid are also credited with interest, meaning Villa could face significant competition if their scouting develops into a January move.
Prestianni remains contracted to Benfica until 2029 and has a reported €100million release clause, although that does not necessarily represent the fee required for a transfer.
The winger would fit Villa’s continued focus on younger attacking talent.
Our Aston Villa transfer tracker follows every reported target ahead of January, while Villa have also recently been linked with Sturm Graz midfielder Luca Weinhandl.
For now, Villa’s interest remains at the scouting stage, with no bid or formal negotiations reported.
