Aston Villa step up Julián Quiñones pursuit after Mexico World Cup exit

Aston Villa have intensified their interest in Julián Quiñones after the Mexico international caught the eye during the FIFA World Cup, with fresh contact made following his country's elimination from the tournament.

Villa are expected to be selective in the transfer market this summer as they continue to balance their finances, but that has not stopped the club identifying attacking reinforcements. Quiñones has now emerged as one of the forwards firmly on their radar.

According to reports, Aston Villa have been closely monitoring Quiñones throughout the World Cup and have now stepped up discussions with the player's representatives.

No official bid has been submitted, but the increased contact suggests Villa are seriously exploring whether a deal can be made.

The 29-year-old enhanced his reputation in Mexico's run to the last 16, finishing the tournament with four goals and one assist. His performances consistently stood out, including a goal against England, underlining why he has attracted attention from Premier League clubs.

Goals have never been an issue for Quiñones.

Since joining Saudi Pro League side Al Qadsiah in 2024, the forward has scored 62 goals and provided 12 assists in just two seasons, maintaining the prolific form he had already shown during his time in Liga MX.

Comfortable playing through the middle or drifting into wider positions, Quiñones offers versatility as well as a proven eye for goal. Those qualities make him an attractive option for a Villa side looking to add depth and competition in attack.

However, there are understandable questions over how quickly he could adapt to English football.

Despite an outstanding scoring record, Quiñones has never played in Europe. At 29, moving to the Premier League would represent the biggest challenge of his career after spending almost 400 professional appearances in Mexico and Saudi Arabia.

That uncertainty is likely to be one factor Villa weigh carefully before deciding whether to progress their interest.

Any deal may depend on more than football.

Villa continue to work within financial restrictions and are widely expected to sanction player sales before committing to significant spending this summer.

Quiñones' salary at Al Qadsiah could also complicate negotiations. Saudi Pro League clubs have set a new benchmark for player wages in recent years, and matching those figures may not be realistic for Villa unless the forward is prepared to compromise.

For now, discussions remain at an early stage, but the interest appears genuine after his impressive performances on the international stage.

Villa are expected to continue assessing attacking options before making a formal move. Much could depend on outgoing transfers at Villa Park and whether Quiñones is willing to leave Saudi Arabia on different financial terms. If those obstacles can be overcome, talks could progress later in the transfer window.

Would Julián Quiñones be a smart signing for Aston Villa, or should the club focus on a younger striker with European experience?