Unai Emery’s Aston Villa are reportedly targeting Sporting CP’s standout attacker Pedro Gonçalves ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window. According to A Bola via Sport Witness, Villa have been closely monitoring the 26-year-old, maintaining strong interest despite his recent injury setback.
Gonçalves, who joined Sporting in 2020, has been a key figure for the Portuguese side. Though the 2024/25 season hasn’t unfolded as hoped for the versatile forward, he began the campaign in impressive form before a muscle injury in November ruled him out for nearly five months. Now back in action, he’s featured in Sporting’s last three matches as he gradually regains top form.
Despite his lengthy absence, Gonçalves has still managed 11 goal contributions this season, and interest in his services remains high. Alongside Aston Villa, Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen have also shown interest—though they have reportedly already had one approach turned down.
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Villa Set to Intensify Pursuit
Aston Villa are now expected to step up their efforts to secure Gonçalves, aiming to strengthen their squad as they build on their impressive progress under Emery. The Portuguese international’s versatility—capable of playing on either wing or centrally—adds to his appeal.
Villa’s scouts have been tracking his recovery closely and continue to view him as a prime target. However, signing him won’t be straightforward. Sporting CP are reluctant to part ways with their talisman and are already in talks to extend his current deal beyond 2027.
Those negotiations are currently on hold, with Gonçalves focused on helping his team clinch the league title. While this pause could give Villa an opportunity to make their case, the player is reportedly content at Sporting, which could make any move a challenging one.
