Aston Villa are reportedly increasing their efforts to sign Paris Saint-Germain youngster Ibrahim Mbaye, with discussions said to be progressing ahead of the summer transfer window.
Interest from Villa has been building over recent months, and according to reports from France, negotiations are now taking place between the Midlands club and the player's representatives.
Unai Emery's side are believed to be prepared to offer around €40m for the highly-rated attacker and remain optimistic that an agreement can eventually be reached.
However, PSG's own position on a potential departure remains less clear.
Aston Villa stepping up Ibrahim Mbaye pursuit
Mbaye emerged through Paris Saint-Germain’s academy structure before breaking into the first-team picture during 2024.
Although the teenager has not established himself as a regular starter, his profile continues to attract attention across Europe.
The France-born Senegal international has featured 42 times for the club overall and accumulated 30 appearances during the current season.
| Stat (2025/26) | Ibrahim Mbaye |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 30 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Assists | 2 |
| Contract expiry | 2028 |
source: season player data – 27 May 2026
While the raw numbers are modest, Villa’s interest appears based more on long-term potential than immediate production.
Why Mbaye could fit Unai Emery's plans
Villa's current squad situation may partly explain the pursuit.
Leon Bailey and Alysson were among the options used on the right flank during the campaign, although opportunities for depth players remained limited. There are also uncertainties around the left side of the attack, with Jadon Sancho's loan spell unlikely to continue.
Mbaye's versatility may therefore become a significant factor.
The teenager naturally operates from the right side but can also play on the opposite flank, giving Emery tactical flexibility across multiple positions.
Having followed Villa's squad evolution this season, Emery has regularly shown a preference for adaptable attacking players who can operate across several roles rather than specialists limited to one area.
That could strengthen Mbaye's appeal.
PSG decision could become decisive
Reports suggest the player is open to considering a move this summer, particularly after seeing his opportunities reduced following the African Cup of Nations.
There are also claims that Luis Enrique has questioned the intensity of some performances since Mbaye's return.
However, it remains too early to conclude that Paris Saint-Germain are actively prepared to sell.
Despite Villa's reported confidence and willingness to offer €40m, the final decision still rests with the French champions.
Key Points
- Aston Villa are reportedly in discussions over Ibrahim Mbaye
- Villa are prepared to offer around €40m
- The player is said to be open to leaving PSG
- Mbaye can operate on either wing
- PSG have not yet publicly defined their position
What's next
Villa's next step could involve turning discussions into a formal offer if progress continues with the player's representatives.
PSG's response will likely determine whether negotiations accelerate or stall. If the French champions feel Mbaye still has an important role in future planning, Villa may need to increase their efforts further.
Should Aston Villa invest €40m in potential, or focus on a more experienced attacking option?
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