Aston Villa linked with River Plate midfielder Tobías Andrada

Aston Villa are said to be monitoring River Plate midfielder Tobías Andrada, according to a report from Argentine outlet El Crack Deportivo relayed by Sport Witness. The 22-year-old has quickly established himself since joining the Buenos Aires club at the end of July.

Andrada arrived from Vélez Sarsfield and has already played eight official matches under manager Leonardo Ponzio, finding the net once. His rapid integration into the first team appears to have drawn attention from Europe, with Villa named as the only Premier League club currently tracking his progress.

El Crack Deportivo makes clear that nothing is advanced at this stage, describing the situation as early transfer talk rather than concrete negotiations. No offers or formal discussions have been mentioned, and other European clubs are also said to be taking notice of the midfielder.

River Plate secured Andrada on a contract running until December 2030. The initial outlay was around €5.1 million (£4.4m) for 70 per cent of his economic rights, a figure that could eventually rise to approximately €9.4m (£8.1m) for 80 per cent if certain objectives are met.

Any potential move would have to wait regardless, with the summer transfer window having closed on 1 September. Premier League clubs cannot complete new signings until the January window opens on New Year's Day.

Villa have reshaped their midfield significantly over the past few months, bringing in Leon Goretzka, João Gomes, Johan Manzambi and Ibrahim Mbaye before the deadline. Whether Andrada fits into future planning remains to be seen, but for now the links are strictly preliminary.