Aston Villa Reignite Interest In This 24-Year-Old AFCON Star: Good Signing For Emery? | OneFootball

Aston Villa have reportedly locked their focus onto Sporting CP’s Geny Catamo once again. The Portuguese champions definitely expect a formal approach soon. According to a fresh report from the Portuguese outlet A Bola, the winger’s impressive return from the Africa Cup of Nations has put him right back in the shop window.

Aston Villa Reignites Interest in Sporting’s Geny Catamo Following AFCON Heroics

So, Sporting expect serious inquiries as clubs begin planning their summer business. The 24-year-old recently missed five domestic matches while representing Mozambique. However, his performance during that time actually boosted his reputation rather than damaging it.

Catamo featured in four AFCON matches and played a huge part in his nation’s historic run. He scored twice and provided one assist. These contributions helped Mozambique reach the quarter-finals for the very first time. This international success has convinced those at Sporting that his appeal now extends far beyond the Portuguese league.

Villa previously tracked the player. However, this renewed attention suggests Unai Emery’s side see the 24-year-old as a serious target for the upcoming transfer window. Therefore, the Lions likely view the upcoming months as a critical period to check his consistency before making a formal bid.

Tactical Fit and Transfer Feasibility

OEIRAS, PORTUGAL – JULY 25: Geny Catamo of Sporting CP in action during the Pre-Season Friendly match between Sporting CP and Villarreal at Estádio Nacional do Jamor on July 25, 2025 in Oeiras, Portugal. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)

Geny Catamo offers the kind of profile that Unai Emery usually looks for. He is a left-footed player capable of operating on the right flank or as a wing-back. This season, he holds a regular starting spot for Sporting CP. He continues to show off his ability to cut inside and create shooting angles.

The 24-year-old currently has a release clause of €60 million (£51m). This figure protects Sporting’s interests, though it might stop suitors from paying the full amount upfront. Even so, Aston Villa’s need for real competition on the right side makes him an attractive option.

The Premier League club would likely try to talk the fee down. Still, Sporting rarely sell cheap, especially since the player has a long-term contract until 2028. On top of that, Catamo’s versatility allows him to cover multiple positions. Emery will value this highly when rotating the squad for European matches.

Sporting’s title ambitions make a January move unlikely. However, a summer transfer is still on the cards if Villa secure Champions League football. Catamo looks like a high-potential signing who could do well in the Premier League’s high-intensity environment.