Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly in a competitive race to secure the signature of Milan Skriniar, as highlighted by a report from L'Equipe, referenced by The Hard Tackle and Sport Witness. The Slovakian international, currently plying his trade at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), has attracted interest from both Premier League clubs, although sources suggest that Tottenham may currently hold the upper hand in this pursuit. PSG appears ready to part ways with the defender during the upcoming winter transfer window.
Skriniar joined PSG on a free transfer following the conclusion of his contract with Inter Milan. However, his tenure in Paris has not unfolded as anticipated. The 29-year-old from Ziar nad Hronom has struggled to make a significant impact, featuring in only 37 matches and scoring just once. This limited playing time has raised concerns regarding his development and overall contribution to the team.
Despite these challenges, Skriniar's market value remains robust, drawing interest from various clubs, including Turkish giants Fenerbahce and Galatasaray. A move to the Premier League could provide the catalyst needed to rejuvenate his career, and both Aston Villa and Tottenham are keen to seize this opportunity.
For Aston Villa, the acquisition of Skriniar aligns seamlessly with their strategy to bolster defensive options, particularly in light of uncertainties surrounding Diego Carlos's future at the club. While the Villans have explored alternatives such as Loic Bade, Skriniar stands out as a compelling prospect due to his extensive experience and proven pedigree.
On the other hand, Tottenham, under the stewardship of manager Ange Postecoglou, are also eager to enhance their defensive line this January. Currently, Radu Dragusin is the only dedicated centre-back in the squad, making the addition of another defender a pressing priority.
Reports indicate that PSG is open to facilitating Skriniar's exit, potentially through an initial loan arrangement. However, the French champions are keen to include a conditional purchase obligation in any agreement, ensuring they retain an option for the Slovakian international's future should he excel in the Premier League.
As the winter transfer window approaches, the competition for Skriniar's signature is intensifying, with both Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur poised to make significant moves in their pursuit of the talented defender. The outcome of this battle could have considerable implications for both clubs as they seek to strengthen their squads for the remainder of the season.