Aston Villa chasing Abde Ezzalzouli

Aston Villa are being linked with a summer move for Abde Ezzalzouli, with the Real Betis winger emerging as another attacking option for Unai Emery.

The Moroccan international has been one of the more eye-catching wide players in La Liga this season, and it is easy to see why Villa are taking notice. Emery wants more pace, directness and depth in the final third, especially with Villa trying to compete domestically and in Europe. Abde fits that profile perfectly. He is quick, unpredictable, confident in one-v-one situations and comfortable attacking from the left before cutting inside.

His season stats explain the growing interest. Abde has produced around 14 goals in 40 appearances across all competitions this campaign, including nine goals in La Liga and four in Europe. He has also added assists and has been one of Betis' most dangerous ball-carriers, regularly ranking among the league's stronger dribblers. For a winger still only 24, that level of output shows he is becoming more than just a flashy wide player.

Villa's interest makes sense because Emery likes forwards who can stretch matches and create danger without needing everything built around them. Abde would give Villa another option alongside the likes of Ollie Watkins, Morgan Rogers and Leon Bailey. He could play wide left, attack the back post, carry the ball in transition and give Villa more variety against deep blocks.

The problem is the price. Betis know his value has risen sharply, and they are not expected to sell cheaply. His market value is believed to be around €30m, but reports in Spain and England suggest Betis could demand closer to €40m, with some claims even putting the possible asking price in the €40m to €50m range. His contract runs until 2029, and there is also understood to be a release clause worth around €60m.

Villa are not alone in the race either. Newcastle have been strongly linked and may see Abde as a priority if they decide to strengthen on the left wing. West Ham, Everton and Napoli have also been mentioned, while Barcelona retain a financial interest from his move to Betis, which could make any sale even more significant.