Exclusive: Aston Villa Join Race for Argentine Starlet Maher Carrizo

Argentine hitman Maher Carrizo is eyeing a move to the Premier League – and Aston Villa have joined the race to secure his prized signature, SportsBoom understands.

Teenage talent Carrizo, 19, has been watched by a string of Europe’s top clubs this season, with Manchester City and Bournemouth both rumoured to be interesting in signing him.

But now Villa, who are on the cusp of qualifying for the Champions League next season – after a fine run in this year’s competition – who are trying hard to entice the Argentina Under-20 international to Villa Park.

Carrizo’s contract expires next summer, but SportsBoom understands there is a release clause in the player’s contract which would allow him to leave if a big club comes calling.

The CA Velez Sarsfield star would no doubt attract a decent, with a rumoured price tag of £10-15million having already been placed on his head.

Reports from scouts this season are that Carrizo has the makings of something special, especially given some excellent performances this season for his club side.

WATCHING SCOUTS

Villa boss Unai Emery has had scouts watching Carrizo this season and is understood to be a big admirer of the young player, one he hopes to develop next season as the club look to continue making strikes – domestically and in Europe.

Villa narrowly missed out on a place in this year’s Champions League final after an agonising 5-4 semi-final defeat to Paris St Germain.

Emery is keen to bolster his squad with hungry young players top of his hit list – and Carrizo one of a number of players he is interested in recruiting.

However, City boss Pep Guardiola is believed to like Carrizo’s attributes and the Cherries are also interested in getting involved in any battle to sign the player.

Given City’s success over the past few seasons and Pep’s gravitas as manager, the Blues would likely be favourites for a deal.

But Villa have high hopes they can entice Carrizo to the Midlands and give him a leading role in their side.