Aston Villa are reportedly interested in signing Levante defender Andres Garcia, according to Portuguese newspaper Record.
The report suggests Villa are among the clubs eyeing the versatile 21-year-old right-back, adding him to their list of potential January defensive targets.
After already securing Donyell Malen from Borussia Dortmund this week, Villa are keen to make further winter market additions.
Strengthening the right-back position has become a priority, and Garcia is now the latest target.
In addition to his right-back role, Garcia can also play as a centre-back. His impressive performances for Levante, where he has started every match this season in Spain’s second tier, scoring three goals and providing three assists, have caught the attention of clubs such as Sporting Lisbon, Real Betis, Sevilla, and Villa.
The young talent seems promising, but Villa must act quickly.
Garcia has a £10 million release clause, which could rise to £21 million if Levante secure promotion to La Liga. Sporting believe they can sign him for around £5.9 million this winter, a fee Villa should be able to meet.
However, Villa could also shift focus to other right-back options, with Fabrizio Romano recently reporting that the club may turn their attention to Celta Vigo’s Oscar Mingueza.
Emery is keen on the 25-year-old Spanish defender, but no formal bid has been made yet. Mingueza has a £16.6 million release clause, and Villa would need to meet that amount to bring him to Villa Park.
While Garcia offers a more affordable option, Villa might ultimately need a player who can contribute immediately, making Mingueza a stronger choice.
