Aston Villa can sign Andrea Belotti for free as transfer decision confirmed

Andrea Belotti has sparked a scramble for his signature by deciding to leave Torino on a free transfer.

The prolific Italy forward, 28, will leave Torino after seven seasons which saw him score 100 goals in 232 Serie A appearances. Numerous Serie A clubs, including AC Milan and Roma, have already expressed an interest in signing Belotti.

Posting an emotional farewell to Belotti on their website, Torino said: “Dear Andrea, we take note of your decision to embark on a new experience, from today our paths separate. We lived together seven seasons, that in modern football represent a very strong bond, always sharing joys and sufferings, emotions and disappointments with the same passion. We thank you for all you have given us, proud with the contribution of all of what you have become for Taurus we say goodbye with a big good luck for the continuation of your career.”

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Belotti has Premier League interest too, with West Ham United reportedly keen to finally lure the goal-getter to England. Back in 2017, following the most prolific season of Belotti’s career, Manchester United tried to sign the striker.

Aston Villa have also been linked with Belotti in the recent past. He was tentatively linked with the club in 2019, shortly after Villa won promotion to the Premier League under Dean Smith.

A player of Belotti’s ilk was probably beyond Villa back then. But now, with summer signings Philippe Coutinho, Boubacar Kamara and Diego Carlos in tow, the pulling power of Steven Gerrard and financial might of owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens means Belotti is within reach.

Villa already have two experienced strikers in the form of Ollie Watkins and Danny Ings, while youngster Cameron Archer has proved he knows where the goal is. But there is room for a top quality striker in Gerrard’s forward line – especially if the Villa head coach wants to persist with his 4-4-2 diamond formation.

Belotti has all the skills to become an instant hit in the Premier League. He’s fast, strong, technically sound, competent in the air despite standing at 5ft 11ins, and absolutely lethal inside the box.

If Belotti does finally want a crack at the Premier League, West Ham shouldn’t be given a clear run at him. Villa are always on the lookout for players that will instantly improve their squad – and there’s no denying that Belotti would do just that.

Would Belotti be a good signing for Aston Villa? Have your say in the comments section below…

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