'I'm sure' - Journalist claims Aston Villa want to sign 'underrated' star

The Belgian was one of the standouts in Diego Simeone’s side last season, playing a mix of defensive and offensive roles in the side. Some may even go as far to say that it was his best season back in European football after his spell in China a few years ago.

Attracting interest as a result of his performances, Carrasco could end up on the move this summer, with Premier League side Aston Villa amongst his admirers, according to O’Rourke, who said: “Carrasco, I think, would be ideal for the Premier League. He’s a great attacking winger, he can score goals, provide goals as well, and he’s played at the highest level for club and country.

“So if he was to leave Atletico Madrid, I’m sure Aston Villa would love to sign him.”

The winger, who was labelled as ‘underrated’ by Josh Bunting, certainly wouldn’t be the first high-profile player to make the switch to the Midlands club, either. In January, we saw former Barcelona midfielder Philippe Coutinho make the move, before beginning to regain his best form. The attraction of playing under Steven Gerrard seems a major boost at Villa Park.

As of right now, Villa aren’t the only club interested in the Atletico star, however. According to a Spanish source, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are also in the race for his signature, in a deal that would need to be worth at least €60 million, according to AS. 

Any deal looks like it would be expensive, potentially leaving Villa assessing their options. Newcastle, meanwhile, don’t share the same financial concerns following their big-money takeover earlier this year.

Only time will tell whether Villa turn their admiration for Carrasco into serious interest and potential negotiations. For now, the Belgian remains an Atletico Madrid