Aston Villa linked with Matias Soule as Roma eye Mason Greenwood transfer

Aston Villa's interest in Matias Soule could gather momentum this summer as Roma reportedly look to generate funds for a major attacking signing of their own.

The Serie A club are understood to be reassessing the future of the Argentine attacker after an inconsistent campaign in Rome. While Soule remains highly regarded for his potential, reports in Italy suggest Roma believe his development has not progressed as quickly as anticipated since his arrival from Juventus in 2024.

That situation has opened the door for interested clubs, with Aston Villa among those credited with monitoring the 23-year-old's availability.

According to Corriere della Sera, Roma are exploring ways to strengthen their forward line and view player sales as essential to achieving that goal.

One of the club's priorities is reportedly a move for Marseille forward Mason Greenwood. However, completing such a deal would require significant financial flexibility, particularly given UEFA financial regulations.

The report claims Roma would like to receive around €40m for Soule, a figure that would not only help balance their accounts but also provide a substantial contribution towards a potential Greenwood transfer.

Marseille are said to be seeking a package worth approximately €50m plus bonuses for the former England international, meaning Roma may need to act quickly if they are serious about completing a deal.

Soule's versatility is one of his biggest attractions.

The Argentine is capable of operating on either wing, as an attacking midfielder, or in a more creative supporting role behind a central striker. Those qualities could make him an attractive option for Unai Emery, who values tactical flexibility throughout his attacking unit.

While injuries disrupted parts of his season, Soule remains a player with significant upside and could still develop into a high-level attacking option under the right coaching structure.

Roma's financial objectives could strengthen Aston Villa's position in any negotiations.

If the Italian club need a sale before the end of June to assist with financial targets and facilitate other transfers, Villa may not need to meet the full reported asking price.

However, it remains too early to draw firm conclusions. Roma are unlikely to want to sell cheaply, particularly after investing heavily in Soule just two years ago.

The coming weeks could prove decisive as clubs across Europe look to finalise deals before the start of pre-season.

Villa's next move will likely depend on their wider summer recruitment plans and any outgoing transfers. Roma, meanwhile, appear eager to create financial flexibility before pursuing attacking reinforcements.

Should interest develop into formal negotiations, the reported €40m valuation will be a key talking point. With Roma also chasing Greenwood, there could be increased pressure to complete sales sooner rather than later.

Would Matias Soule be a smart signing for Aston Villa, or should Unai Emery target a more established attacker this summer?