Aston Villa Eyeing Summer Swoop For This Feyenoord Forward: Why He Would Be A Brilliant Signing | OneFootball

If a recent report from the Dutch outlet Algemeen Dagblad is believed to be true, Aston Villa are keen on securing the services of Feyenoord forward Igor Paixão. Although the talks are premature at this stage, the English side are willing to meet the financial demands, thus earning a record sale for the Eredivisie heavyweights.

The 24-year-old Brazil youth international progressed through the academy ranks of Coritiba before breaking into their first-team squad in January 2019. He was sent out on loan to Londrina for regular game time and eventually secured first-team status at his boyhood club.

Paixão played a key role in Londrina and Coritiba’s promotions, and his flexibility high up the pitch earned him a €4.50m transfer to De Kuip in the summer of 2022. He was instrumental to Feyenoord’s league triumph under former manager Arne Slot, and has so far netted 39 times and laid on 29 more in 129 appearances [stats via Transfermarket] in all competitions. With 18 goals and 19 assists this season, the Selecao ace has drawn interest from many European outfits, including Aston Villa.

LISBON, PORTUGAL – OCTOBER 23: Igor Paixao of Feyenoord in action during the warm-up before the start of the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD3 match between SL Benfica and Feyenoord at Estadio da Luz on October 23, 2024 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)

Unai Emery failed to attain successive years of Champions League football following a controversial final gameweek defeat against Manchester United. However, they are still in Europe with the Europa League in sight, and the Lions’ boss should aim for silverware, having restored the lost pride at Villa Park.

Why Paixão Would Fit In Aston Villa Attack

Predominantly a right-footed attacker who prefers to operate from the left as an inverted winger, Paixão has also been deployed as a ‘number 10’, False 9, and even on the right a few times. Known for his exquisite passing, shooting and crossing skills, along with finishing and set-piece expertise, the Feyenoord sensation could be brought in to replace Marcus Rashford on the flank.

The Red Devils outcast had an impressive six-month loan stint in Birmingham. But the Claret and Blue are likely to miss out on a permanent deal, with the Englishman leaning towards a high-profile Barcelona transfer. Jacob Ramsey has been in and out of the starting lineup, and despite his flair and finesse, the lack of end product remains a concern. Skipper John McGinn slotted in down the left on several occasions. But the Scotsman is more effective as a central midfielder due to his physical presence and ball-carrying ability from the middle of the park.

Paixão’s directness and scoring attributes should see him fit in the Spaniard’s 4-2-3-1 set-up. While the club are under scrutiny for breaching PSR regulations, the freed-up funds from player sales must be invested in the Brazilian.