Aston Villa failed to score in their match against Chelsea on Friday, making it their second consecutive goalless game despite having 29 shots in total. In light of this, Unai Emery may be looking to strengthen their attack before the transfer window closes on Thursday. Reports suggest that Villa is keeping a close eye on Semih Kilicsoy, a promising prospect from Besiktas. Although other Premier League clubs, such as Tottenham, are also interested in Kilicsoy, Villa has the funds to make a move. The potential signing of Kilicsoy could create a lethal strike partnership with Ollie Watkins, who has been a key player for Villa this season. Kilicsoy has been described as a “hidden gem” and has shown impressive composure and clinical finishing skills, making him a valuable addition to the team.
The 5 foot 10 attacker has become Besiktas’ top scorer in the league with five goals, despite only playing ten matches with an average of 57 minutes per game. This would also place him as Villa’s joint-fourth-highest scorer in the Premier League for the season. Adding another goal-scoring outlet to the team would make Emery’s side less predictable and increase their output. With an assist rate per 90 minutes of 0.32, the attacker could also provide creativity for Watkins, and their high number of touches in the opposition box suggests they could interchange roles effectively. Kilicsoy is a confident player with high shot and successful dribble statistics, and he is described as “powerful” by Mattinson. He rarely gets bullied, unlike other young players who are yet to develop physically. Operating in the second striker position and drifting out wide into the channels would maximize his potential, complement Watkins, and make Villa a more formidable team.
