Transfer Rumors: Aston Villa Joins Race For Swiss Midfielder’s Services

With the January transfer window now here, teams are expected to scamper at the best available talent to beef up their respective lineups.

One name that is likely to gain steam in the coming days is Denis Zakaria of Borussia Mönchengladbach.

The 25-year-old Swiss player is set to leave Die Fohlen in the summer but is now free to negotiate a pre-contract with any team.

Initially, Arsenal and Liverpool were singled out as teams who have an interest in the defensive midfielder.

But it appears there is a new group in the mix with reports that Aston Villa is also interested in the 25-year-old footballer.

While Steven Gerrard sees good things for the Lions if they can maneuver a deal for Zakaria, their chances do not look promising.

Arsenal has allegedly already held talks with Zakaria although there is no clarity on how those discussions went, Fussball Transfers reported.

As for Liverpool, Zakaria expressed his fondness for the Reds.

So given these circumstances, the Lions may have their work cut out in pursuing Zakaria.

They have the funds to spare so convincing Zakaria to consider a move to Villa Park is seen as the main obstacle in getting a potential deal done.

The interest in Zakaria is understandable. He is one of the prime players that teams should consider this January transfer window, someone who could help any team in dire need of midfield help.

Adding to the woes of Aston Villa is the report that Manchester City is now also in the mix for Zakaria’s services.

According to Sports Illustrated, the Sky Blues are interested in a long-term deal for Zakaria to take the place of Fernandhino.

The Citizens plan is to have Zakaria give Rodri some competition while at the same time bolstering the options of Manchester City at the midfield position.

Zakaria already made it clear and informed Gladbach management of his intention to leave Borussia-Park.

This was after he was given an ultimatum by Sporting Director Max Eberl.

Zakaria has made 144 appearances for Borussia Monchengladbach across all competitions and 40 caps for the Swiss national side.