Atletico Madrid striker Luis Suarez is reportedly interested in reuniting with Steven Gerrard at Aston Villa.
Gerrard, who replaced Dean Smith at the helm of the Villans in November 2021, recently brought in Lucas Digne from Everton and Philippe Coutinho on loan from Barcelona.
Now, the English tactician is eyeing more reinforcements to help the Midlands outfit enjoy a successful second half of the season.
According to Spanish journalist Gerard Romero (h/t The Daily Star), Luis Suarez has snubbed offers from various clubs and could team up with Steven Gerrard at Aston Villa.
The Uruguayan striker has rejected offers from Brazilian sides Palmeiras, Corinthians and Atletico Mineiro with the hope of returning to the Premier League in the summer, when he will be out of contract at the Wanda Metropolitano.
Luis Suarez 'IS considering a move to Aston Villa following talks with Steven Gerrard' https://t.co/KQCDZyainM
— MailOnline Sport (@MailSport) January 19, 2022
Suarez, 34, helped Atletico Madrid win the La Liga title last season, scoring 21 goals in 32 games. His form has dipped a bit this term, with the Los Rojiblancos 16 points off league leaders Real Madrid, albeit a game in hand.
Luis Suarez to Aston Villa – How will he fit in?
Aston Villa have a decent squad to finish in the top half of the table this season under Steven Gerrard. The additions of Philippe Coutinho and Lucas Digne have significantly bolstered the squad, giving Gerrard’s side the lift they need for the second half of the campaign.
Luis Suarez’s potential addition in the summer will undoubtedly add quality to Villa’s attacking ranks. The Uruguayan international has scored a truckload of goals throughout his career and even at this ripe age, he’d represent a coup for the Lions.
The 34-year-old remains a competent striker and a deadly finisher in front of goal. At Aston Villa, Suarez could go straight up top in Gerrard’s narrow 4-3-2-1 system and offer the cutting edge to their attack which the team has been missing for the majority of the campaign. In that case, Ollie Watkins and Emi Buendia will likely take the no.10 spots, as it remains to be seen whether Coutinho’s loan move will be turned permanent at the end of the season.
If Gerrard wishes to change his system and go with a flat 4-4-2, Suarez could get paired with Watkins upfront. With him and Watkins working in tandem and Buendia offering the flair, the Villans will have a strong attack.
Suarez has plenty of top-flight experience and could bring the winning mentality to Villa’s side. The ex-Barcelona and Liverpool star has entered the twilight of his career and may not be a long-term addition, but he will give Villa a lot in terms of productivity, experience and game-changing moments.