Aston Villa has reportedly identified RB Leipzig striker Timo Werner and Leicester City star Kelechi Iheanacho as transfer targets in advance of the January transfer window, according to sources from Football Insider.
The pair are on the radar for the Midlands club as they intensify their efforts to secure a forward signing in the coming year.
Werner, 27, currently finds himself on the periphery at RB Leipzig and is not part of the active lineup. Meanwhile, 27-year-old Iheanacho’s contract is set to expire at the end of this season, and he has seen limited action for Leicester in recent matches.
Villa is prioritizing the recruitment of a striker in January, with manager Unai Emery keen to bring in someone who can serve as backup for Ollie Watkins and provide added depth in attack.
Watkins has registered 14 goals and eight assists in 24 appearances across all competitions thus far in the 2023-24 season. He has been a regular starter in the Premier League this season, with Jhon Duran not yet entrusted to play a significant role in the English top flight.
Football Insider previously reported on 14 November that Aston Villa plans to facilitate Duran’s departure in January, with a loan move being the most probable option. It is understood that the young player’s attitude has been questioned by Emery on multiple occasions, and he has been instructed to make substantial improvements to align with the Spaniard’s exacting standards.
Werner has scored two goals in 14 appearances this season after registering 16 goals in 40 games for Leipzig in the 2022-23 campaign. Meanwhile, Iheanacho has contributed six goals and two assists in 20 appearances for Leicester following their relegation from the Premier League last season.
