Report: Nantes in talks with Aston Villa to sign Frederic Guilbert

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Aston Villa are reportedly engaged in talks with Nantes over the sale of full-back Frederic Guilbert.

The Frenchman’s future at the club has come into doubt following the arrival of Matty Cash from Nottingham Forest.

The 23-year-old put pen to paper on a five-year deal, with Villa negotiating a deal that could eventually reach £16 million (Sky Sports).

It means Dean Smith currently now has three options for the right-back position, with Ahmed Elmohamady also in the mix.

According to GFFN though, Ligue 1 side Nantes have now entered into discussions to sign Guilbert, with the publication claiming there is an ‘intense interest’ in the former Caen man.

Previously, France Football had reported there was interest from several sides across the Premier League and Championship, suggesting Guilbert may well be departing.

The player only joined the club in January 2019 for around £5 million (Birmingham Mail), with 2019/20 being his first season after finishing 2018/19 back on loan with Caen.

TBR’s View – Selling Guilbert would be a Villa error

Villa should not be looking to sell Guilbert despite the arrival of Cash.

At times last season, he was outstanding on the right side of defence – he just lost his way a little towards the end.

Elmohamady has been a great servant but is ageing and really, should be the one to be moved on if anybody.