Aston Villa, currently in the hunt for the Premier League title, are reportedly on the verge of securing the services of Red Star Belgrade’s rising star, Kosta Nedeljkovic. The West Midlands club, under the management of Unai Emery, is anticipated to make strategic squad additions as they compete at the top of the table.
With the January transfer window in full swing, Villa may have to exercise patience as they await potential departures, including Calum Chambers and Bertrand Traore, who have been made available for transfer. However, the club has demonstrated a forward-looking approach by actively pursuing 18-year-old Nedeljkovic from Red Star.
Kosta Nedeljkovic to Aston Villa – “Here We Go”
In his debut senior season with Red Star, Nedeljkovic has garnered attention across Europe with standout performances, making 18 appearances, including a notable stint in the Champions League against Manchester City.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano suggests that a deal for the young talent is nearing completion, indicating Villa’s commitment to securing both immediate and future prospects.
Reports suggest that Villa have granted permission for Nedeljkovic to continue his development at Red Star for the remainder of the current season.
The right-back position, where Matty Cash and Ezri Konsa have featured, is expected to see competition with the potential inclusion of Nedeljkovic from the 2024-25 season onward.
While the financial details of the transfer remain undisclosed, Romano hints that the fee will likely be less than the previously reported £6.6 million.
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Nedeljkovic’s impressive senior debut, coupled with his background in Red Star’s youth ranks and representation at the U19 level for Serbia, positions him as one of Europe’s emerging talents in his position.
The acquisition of Nedeljkovic could address a potential gap in Villa’s current squad, providing competition and cover for Matty Cash. Emery’s strategic planning could also see Ezri Konsa utilized in his natural centre-back role, freeing him from occasional duties at right-back.
As Nedeljkovic’s age and relative inexperience align with Emery’s vision for long-term development, the young Serbian is poised to become a valuable asset, contributing both to Villa’s immediate aspirations and their sustained success.