Aston Villa transfer news: Ibrahima Ba agent suggests summer move a possibility

The agent of Famalicao defender Ibrahima Ba has suggested that a summer transfer to Aston Villa is a possibility.

Earlier this week, Villa were among a number of teams to be linked with an approach for the 20-year-old.

Porto, Sporting Lisbon, Benfica, Braga and Vitoria de Guimaraes have also been credited as admirers of a player who has impressed in his first senior campaign in Primeira Liga.

Sa has made a total of 17 appearances in Portugal's top flight, helping Famalicao sit in fifth place in the Primeira Liga table at this stage of the season.

Speaking in an interview with Africa Foot, agent Alioune Seck has indicated that he and Ba will consider their options during the summer transfer window.

© Imago / Sportimage

Ba agent not surprised by Villa interest

Although Seck hinted that Ba would not definitely leave Famalicao, he acknowledged that a transfer to a bigger club could materialise.

He said: "It’s normal that a player with his potential and performances attracts the attention of big clubs.

"It shows he’s on the right track. We are, of course, keeping a close eye on the market, but there’s no rush.

"He’ll finish the season, and we’ll see what happens after that."

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Why Villa interest in prospect makes sense

Despite sitting in fourth position in the Premier League table, each of Villa's central defenders are aged between 28 and 33.

Therefore, some younger talent will eventually have to arrive at Villa Park if Unai Emery is to lower the age of the squad.

While Ba has minimal experience of senior football, the fact that Portugal's biggest clubs are interested in his signature suggests that he has the credentials to make rapid progress.

That said, Ba may plausibly prefer to remain in familiar surroundings at this stage of his development, and that could see Primeira Liga teams hold the advantage.

Villa were also linked with a move for a Belgian starlet last week.