Aston Villa transfer update as ‘scouts dispatched’ to assess defensive wonderkid in France
Aston Villa are among the clubs keeping an eye on highly-rated teenage centre-back Tylel Tati, according to reports.
Villa have apparently even sent scouts to observe the 17-year-old in action, enticed by his defensive abilities and versatility on display in his first handful of Ligue 1 appearances for Nantes.
According to Caught Offside, Villa are just one of the Premier League clubs interested in Tati, with Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, Brentford and Brighton & Hove Albion all credited with an admiring eye.
“The interest isn’t limited to the Premier League. Barcelona view Tati as a long-horizon investment to modernise their defensive line, while RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen, two of Germany’s best at fast-tracking high-ceiling prospects, are also tracking him closely,” reports Caught Offside.
Tati is regarded as a rounded and mature defender with wisdom beyond his years. People familiar with his game believe he can be deployed as a left-back or holding midfielder.
He has made six league appearances for the Nantes senior team after playing Under-19 and reserve team football in the 2024/25 season.
Nantes not keen to sell
Tati’s performance data backs up his reputation, showing that he can make meaningful defensive contributions regularly as well as passing and carrying to ball progressively.
“Comfortable on his weaker side, he can slide to left-back when the full-back tucks inside, and he has the composure to operate as a defensive midfielder, breaking up play and progressing possession through tight areas,” reports Caught Offside.
“Tati has the hallmarks of the next breakout defender from France’s football system.”
Nantes do not seem eager to sell their new golden talent, preferring instead to keep developing his skills at the club where he came through the ranks. Reports suggest that Nantes want to give Tati experience in a variety of positions before listening to offers.
With the player in such demand, though, it seems certain that his club will be prepared to let him go for a very handsome transfer fee within the next year or two.
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