Villa in link with German International
I first saw this link on Tribal Football, and was half tempted not to write anything on the matter. A simple Google search later and there is a little bit more to the link (randomly appeared on an Italian site), and if nothing else it gives you something to read for a few minutes.
The player in question is Lewis Holtby, he of the English father and German mother, who has represented Germany at various age-groups, including a couple of caps for the full side. Here is a little excerpt from one of the articles….this tidbit appeared on Caught Offside:
‘According to Italian source CalcioMercato believe that Aston Villa are planning a move for Schalke midfielder Lewis Holtby, who could be set to leave his Bundesliga side as he is in the final year of his current contract.
The 22 year old German international spent a good couple of years forcing his way into Gelsenkirchen based side’s first team picture, spending time out on loan at both Bochum and Mainz but is now considered a bright young Bundesliga talent but if no deal is forthcoming then Villa Park boss Paul Lambert could be able to pick up the midfielder ‘on the cheap’ in January.’
As for the player he operates in midfield, usually more attacking minded and has previously expressed an interest in playing in the Premiership (mainly for Everton as his Dad is apparently a massive fan). His contract expires at the end of the season, meaning interested parties from outside Germany can get in touch in January and attempt to sign the player to a pre-contract (as we did with Holman), or sign him for a relatively cheap fee.
He pops up with a fair amount of goals, with a good record of three goals in nine games for Schalke this season, and an even better record of 11 goals in 17 games for the German under 21 side. In addition to his goals, he also has a very impressive 7.81 average rating on the Who Scored website.
We could certainly do with a proper goal scoring midfielder, and any non striker who can pop up with around 10 goals a season is very valuable. Will this deal happen? Let’s be honest probably not, but on the face of it, it be very nice. I still think a more defensive midfielder is much more of a priority, but anyone that can pop up with goals, and supply the front men on a more consistent basis would also be welcome down at Villa Park.
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Would he want to go from a CL team to us though? You’d think another CL team is more likely unless it is Everton for the aforementioned sentimental reasons.
You’re more than likely right mate. He seems quite highly rated, so you’d figure there might be a bit of interest in him. Maybe Lambert can sway him though with his German links (slightly clutching at straws!)?
It’s always nice to be linked to good players though this one admittedly looks a tad unlikely.
Well Gaston Ramirez did go to Soton. So not beyond the realms of possibility.
well look at vlaar & benteke coming to villa so you never know
I think Lewis Holtby would be good for the team, we could then let Bannan go because he is not hit heights as predicted. also With PL playing in Germany and having links he would fit in more at villa than Everton.