Aston Villa look set to compete with Premier League rivals Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur for one of Belgium's hottest prospects after 'stunning' start to the season.
Matte Smets has been attracting much interest from across Europe as he continues to shine for Belgian Pro League table toppers KRC Genk. According to TBR Football, the 20-year-old is said to be being monitored by the Villans with defence considered an area where Unai Emery's side could bolster in the coming January transfer window.
Previously compared to PSG captain and Brazil international Marquinhos, Smets has been described as 'complete and elegant' in his play style.
The Belgian joined Genk in the summer, returning to the club where he played the majority of his youth football, after a breakout campaign for fellow Belgian side Sint-Truiden. He has since cemented his place in the side, starting 14 of 16 league games, an impressive feat at such a young age.
Smets signed for Genk in a €2 million deal and his value has since risen to €7.5 million, an amount that could be a steal considering his notable comparisons and lofty potential.
Emery and his colleagues may look to pounce before the interest from their rivals hots up and the right-sided centre back could be the perfect candidate to provide quality and depth on that side of the defence.
Smets would join up with the growing Belgian contingent at Villa Park, playing alongside compatriots Amadou Onana and Youri Tielemans.
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