Aston Villa 'rivalling' Chelsea and Brighton for wonderkid who tormented Man Utd

Aston Villa are reportedly set to rival a host of Premier League clubs in the race to sign highly sort-after Copenhagen winger Roony Bardghji.

The 18-year-old, who tormented Manchester United with an 87th-minute goal to seal a famous 4-3 victory in the UEFA Champions League, is hot property having burst onto the scene in 2023. A tally of 15 goals in 71 games may not sound overly impressive but many of the teenager's minutes have come off the bench.

United are said to be keen on Bardghji after watching him first-hand, while Manchester City, Chelsea, Brighton & Hove Albion, Newcastle United and Brentford have all been linked this winter. HITC reports Villa are "interested" and have been told a bid of £20 million would seal a deal. Copenhagen are also "ready to do business" for their prized asset.

Competition is already fierce with so many Premier League clubs circling but teams across Europe are also said to want a piece of the pie. Bayer Leverkusen, Borussia Dortmund, Juventus and Napoli have all reportedly "expressed an interest" in signing Bardghji.

What could hurt Villa in the race is the need to sell before spending big. Unai Emery has admitted the Villans are having to resist major January activity to stay in line with the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules. Having seen what is happening with Everton and Nottingham Forest, you can't blame Villa for being cautious.