Forgotten Aston Villa and Everton ‘baller’ set for surprise transfer abroad

Former Aston Villa winger Yannick Bolasie is reportedly set for a shock transfer to Brazilian second-tier club Criciúma Esporte Club, just under three weeks on from departing Swansea City after a two-month stay.

The ex-Democratic Republic of the Congo international, who has turned out for the likes of Plymouth Argyle, Bristol City, Crystal Palace, Everton and Middlesbrough, tried and failed to revive his career in English football. Set to turn 35 in May, Bolasie is trialing out an entirely different challenge with a first-ever footballing venture outside of Europe.

Transfer news specialist Fabrizio Romano reports Criciúma have fully agreed on a pre-contract agreement with Bolasie ahead of a month at the end of February. Details still need to be ironed out but the winger will travel to Brazil next week if all goes to plan.

Known for his pace, power and tricky footwork, Bolasie was often described as a "baller" or a "streets will never forget" kind of player when in his prime. His most successful period was at Palace between 2012 and 2016 as he netted 12 goals in 133 Premier League appearances.

His presence at Villa Park throughout the 2018/19 season may have evaded the memories of some fans as it was brief and he didn't even accumulate 1,000 minutes. Nonetheless, he did score twice and notch five assists in the Sky Bet Championship, with many games off the bench.

Bolasie, if his move to Brazil is finalised, will be thrust straight into a potential Campeonato Catariense-winning team as Criciúma have won six out of seven matches so far. The southeast Brazil-based club are five points clear of second-placed Marcílio Dias.