Insights from Italy and Turkey
Aston Villa’s winter transfer plans involve a complex array of moving parts, making it challenging to predict whether they will secure a stronger position by the end of the January transfer window. Forward Donyell Malen has completed a transfer to Serie A club Roma. Although Malen struggled at Villa Park, the team is in dire need of additional forward options. Recent reports indicate that Villa is nearing a deal for English striker Tammy Abraham, having outbid competing clubs with a long-term contract offer. Rumor has it that Villa is ready to offer Abraham a 4.5-year deal, hoping to draw him back to the club where he had a remarkable loan season during 2018/19.
At 28, Abraham is also being courted by other Premier League clubs like Everton but appears to favor a return to Villa. That said, his situation is complicated, as Villa must navigate delicate discussions with Besiktas, where Abraham is currently on loan from Roma, and the Turkish club has activated an obligation to buy him. Besiktas president Serdal Adalı recently stated, “We have received an official offer for Abraham. Another English club is also interested, but we have no intentions of letting him go at this time. We’ll see what the next days bring.” Abraham last played in the Premier League in 2021, having spent four years in Italy and the last six months in Turkey. Leveraging the global expertise of Transfermarkt, we delve into his performances abroad.
Abraham’s Performance in Italy
Stefano Buonfino, Transfermarkt’s Content Manager in Italy, shares insights on Abraham’s time in Serie A: “Abraham’s initial period at Roma was impressive, and he was celebrated as one of the top players of his time, often compared to Victor Osimhen. However, his performance declined in subsequent years, possibly due to teams becoming more familiar with his strengths and a serious injury he sustained. Upon his return, he faced increased competition and struggled to secure a starting position. He was loaned to AC Milan in an attempt to rejuvenate his career but remained a backup option. Ultimately, he was sold to Turkey for a fraction of his original value. I have my doubts about whether he can regain his form in England, as his recent years in Italy were lackluster, although he appears to be thriving in Turkey.”
Abraham’s Performance in Turkey and Potential Departure
As previously mentioned, Abraham joined Turkish powerhouse Besiktas on a loan with an obligation to buy for €13 million. Since joining, he has netted 13 goals in 25 appearances. Cemal Utku Ağkaya, Transfermarkt’s Content Manager in Turkey, elaborates on Abraham’s contributions in the Süper Lig: “His mobility and passing abilities surpass the standards of the Süper Lig. Historically, he has successfully filled the gap left by Ciro Immobile, who faced difficulties last season due to age and recurring injuries. This season, Abraham has played a crucial role in creating opportunities for his teammates.
“I consider him one of the standout performers for a Beşiktaş side that has experienced significant instability, having undergone four managerial changes and two presidents in the past 18 months. Abraham was instrumental in Aston Villa’s promotion to the Premier League, and given the current squad’s lack of a strong, tall striker, I anticipate Villa will make a serious effort to bring him back during the winter transfer window.”
