BREAKING NEWS: Reluctant to sell, Aston Villa and Newcastle are interested in signing a “aggressive” midfielder for at least €40 million.

Exequiel Palacios, a midfielder for Bayer Leverkusen, is a target for Aston Villa and Newcastle United, but a deal with the German team will require convincing.

SportBILD claims that any negotiations would have to begin at €40 million, which is the current market worth of the “aggressive” midfield player.

They clarify that Palacios, who cost €17 million when he joined the German team from River Plate at the start of 2020, has become a true star under Xabi Alonso in the last year or so, solidifying his position as a vital player in the middle of the park.

In addition to having won the World Cup with Argentina’s team in Qatar, the midfielder is currently being pursued by a number of teams, including Aston Villa and Newcastle.

The two teams are eager to conclude a deal in the summer, but Leverkusen is not ready to sell right now and would only start talks at a minimum of €40 million.

To get the athlete to sign, though, it’s likely going to take more than that.

It is debatable if Newcastle or Aston Villa have the money. Since Unai Emery’s arrival, Villa has undoubtedly demonstrated a willingness to spend big money on him, but unless they can make a significant sell first, FFP concerns could hinder the Magpies’ progress.

In any case, both are being considered for Palacios, one of several Leverkusen players who may be moving as a result of their outstanding season thus far.

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