Angers general manager confirms Aston Villa bid for midfielder Baptiste Santamaria

Add as preferred source on Google

Aston Villa did have a bid rejected for Angers midfielder Baptiste Santamaria this summer, it has been confirmed by the French club. 

Oliver Pickeau, the general manager of the Ligue 1 side, was discussing a potential exit of Jeff Reine-Adelaide to Lyon yesterday with L’Equipe. He was also quizzed on whether Santamaria would remain at the club this summer. 

The Daily Mail reported in June that Aston Villa saw the 24-year-old as a potential alternative to Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips. L’Equipe went on to report in July that Aston Villa had seen a £6.3 million bid for the player rejected.

He went on to suggest that Aston Villa had indeed made an offer for the player but that Angers have convinced the midfielder to stay for one more season.

“We closed the door. I think it’s pretty clear. Aston Villa made an important offer, we had a chat with Baptiste to explain the importance he had in our project and the fact that he could be allowed to leave next year.

“As a result of our exchange, we thought we would continue the adventure together, without frustration, and the correct opportunity will come.”

TBR’s View

Of course, Aston Villa will be disappointed to have missed out on such a talented midfield operator. 

However, the club did strengthen in that area with the arrivals of Douglas Luiz and Marvelous Nakamba so will feel they have addressed any weakness in the middle of the park. 

Regarding Santamaria, it certainly looks as though the Frenchman is going to be on offer next summer. 

If Aston Villa can establish themselves in the Premier League and Santamaria continues to improve as a player, then perhaps they can revisit a potential deal in 12 months time.