Transfer Centre

Aston Villa 'learn asking price for Real Madrid playmaker Brahim Diaz'

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 25 October 2023

Aston Villa 'learn asking price for Real Madrid's Brahim Diaz'

Aston Villa reportedly learn what it will take to secure a deal for Real Madrid playmaker Brahim Diaz during one of the upcoming transfer windows.

Real Madrid have reportedly set an asking price for Brahim Diaz, an alleged target of Aston Villa.

Although Los Blancos signed Diaz from Manchester City in January 2019, he has spent the bulk of his time at the Santiago Bernabeu out on loan.

Three seasons were spent in the colours of AC Milan, the playmaker starring for the Italian giants and winning a Serie A title at San Siro.

However, despite contributing 18 goals and 15 assists from 124 appearances in all competitions, the 24-year-old has failed to make an impression on his return to Real.

Just one start and eight substitute outings have been made, with his solitary outing in the first XI lasting just 57 minutes in a 2-0 victory over Las Palmas, a game in which he scored.

Inter Milan's Henrikh Mkhitaryan in action with AC Milan's Brahim Diaz on May 16, 2023 © Reuters

As a result of his limited game time, a recent report indicated that the Spain international is contemplating an exit from Real as soon as possible.

The situation is complicated by Diaz possessing a contract until 2027 and Carlo Ancelotti viewing him as a player who can be used as backup.

Nevertheless, according to Sport, Real officials would be prepared to do business if they receive an offer of €20m (£17.5m).

Villa have been suggested as a potential destination for Diaz with Unai Emery potentially in the market for a new versatile creator in January.

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery reacts on September 30, 2023 © Reuters

That is despite Villa being the second-highest goalscorers in the Premier League, a total of 23 strikes coming from their nine fixtures.

West Ham have also been credited with an interest in Diaz as they, too, look to find an extra edge for the second half of the season, as well as likely having to negotiate an extended European campaign.

When Diaz was with Man City, he was limited to only five appearances in the Premier League, accumulating just 49 minutes of action in outings as a substitute.

Diaz also has just 545 minutes to his name in la Liga, with that game time being spread over a total of 23 matches.