Aston Villa make opening bid for Jaydee Canvot | OneFootball

Aston Villa have reportedly confirmed their interest in Toulouse’s highly regarded defender Jaydee Canvot, with a bid rumoured to be on the table for the 18‑year‑old Frenchman.

Villa have reportedly entered negotiations with Toulouse, who are understood to want in excess of €20 million – approximately £17m – for the versatile defender, whose contract extends until 2029.

Despite his tender age, Canvot featured 18 times in Ligue 1 last season, showing impressive composure that convinced Sky Sports’ Sacha Tavolieri that Villa are “now convinced by his potential and ready to finalise a deal”.

The youth international, comfortable both at centre‑back and in defensive midfield, has reportedly agreed personal terms with the Midlands club, and his move is now awaiting the agreement of the two clubs.

According to French and UK reports, the key sticking point remains the fee - Toulouse appear determined to hold out for their valuation, while Villa’s recruitment focus remains firmly on securing defensive reinforcements.

At 18, Canvot has limited top-flight experience, making Villa’s valuation a potential gamble. Nevertheless, sources indicate that Unai Emery and his backroom staff are preparing to incorporate him into first‑team plans, even if he initially features for the Under‑21s.

Villa’s summer activities have, to date, been selective. They recently completed the signing of goalkeeper Marco Bizot on a free transfer, but have otherwise remained quiet. With Champions League qualification again their primary objective, the club are combining short‑term solidity with long‑term potential – and Canvot is emblematic of that strategy.

Should the deal be finalised, the teenager will become one of the most promising defensive acquisitions of the window, arriving at Villa Park with the ambition to break into Emery’s first‑team and grow into a Premier League asset.

📸 LOIC VENANCE - AFP or licensors