Aston Villa push for Ibrahim Mbaye as PSG star wants exit

Aston Villa remain seriously interested in Ibrahim Mbaye after the Paris Saint-Germain winger reportedly decided he wants to leave the French champions this summer.

The 18-year-old is attracting attention after another breakthrough season and his appearance at the World Cup with Senegal. According to French journalist Santi Aouna, Villa's interest is stronger than Tottenham's as Unai Emery considers adding the teenager to his attacking options.

The key development is Mbaye's own position. His entourage reportedly believe he should stay at PSG and continue his development, but the player wants a new challenge.

Mbaye has emerged as one of PSG's leading academy talents since becoming the youngest player in the club's history to make a senior appearance.

The winger featured 31 times last season and recorded five goal involvements as his role in the first team increased. He also strengthened his reputation on the international stage, scoring for Senegal against France at the World Cup.

With Senegal eliminated in the last 32, Mbaye can now focus on his club future.

Villa are well placed to offer the teenager an ambitious sporting project and Champions League football. Tottenham are also monitoring the situation, but their interest is reportedly less advanced.

Mbaye still has two years remaining on his PSG contract, meaning the French club retain a strong negotiating position. There is also interest from unnamed clubs outside France.

Villa's pursuit fits their search for another winger with significant development potential.

Mbaye already has senior experience for PSG and Senegal despite being only 18, while his ability to play in wide attacking positions would give Emery another option for the new season.

The Villans are also considering Jonathan Rowe and remain interested in Anis Hadj Moussa, but competition for both players could make Mbaye an increasingly important target.

However, Villa must first discover whether PSG are prepared to sanction a sale and what fee would be required for one of their brightest young players.

Aston Villa must now decide whether to turn their strong interest into a concrete offer to PSG.

Mbaye's desire to leave could encourage Villa, but his contract and growing reputation mean negotiations are unlikely to be straightforward. With Tottenham and clubs outside France also monitoring him, the next move from Villa could determine whether they take control of the transfer race.

Can Aston Villa convince PSG to sell one of their brightest young talents?