Aston Villa set to battle Chelsea for 21yo striker

Aston Villa are set to provide stiff competition to Chelsea in the race to sign Hoffenheim striker Maximilian Beier, according to Florian Plettenberg.

The Midlands outfit had a superb 2023/24 campaign under manager Unai Emery and they finished fourth in the Premier League standings.

As a result, they have qualified for next season's Champions League and the hierarchy are now aiming to add more quality in their front line.

Ollie Watkins is an undisputed starter up front for them, but Jhon Duran has yet to make a significant impact as the deputy centre-forward.

There are suggestions that Duran could leave in the coming weeks and this could pave the way for the arrival of Beier from Hoffenheim.

The young German netted 16 goals in the Bundesliga last term. He currently has a release clause worth €30 million in his contract.

Chelsea are also admirers of the marksman, but Villa could have an advantage over them, having qualified for the Champions League.