Aston Villa have West Ham player as Plan A – And West Ham target as Plan B

Aston Villa have identified Sevilla winger Rubén Vargas as an alternative if a move for West Ham’s Crysencio Summerville fails. Additionally, fresh reports in Spain add a new layer to the Switzerland international’s transfer saga.

The Villans have already been linked with Vargas in recent days. However, the latest update explains where he sits in the club’s thinking as Unai Emery looks to strengthen the left side of his attack.

According to ABC de Sevilla, Summerville remains Aston Villa’s priority target this summer. However, the Dutchman is attracting interest from several clubs following West Ham’s relegation. So there is no certainty he will end up at Villa Park.

That has prompted Aston Villa to keep Vargas firmly on their shortlist.

Rubén Vargas seen as backup option

The Spanish outlet reports Sevilla’s winger has been lined up as an alternative should Aston Villa fail to land Summerville.

The 27-year-old has enjoyed an outstanding World Cup with Switzerland, registering three goals and one assist. He also helped Murat Yakin’s side reach the quarter-finals. Consequently, his performances have significantly boosted his profile after an injury-hit first half of the year at Sevilla.

English interest has gathered pace in recent days. West Ham have already been credited with making enquiries over his situation. Meanwhile, Brighton have also emerged as contenders after reports they are preparing a formal offer.

ABC now place Aston Villa in that picture. However, there is clarification that Vargas is not currently the club’s first-choice target.

Sevilla hoping for Premier League bidding battle

Rubén Vargas has no intention of making a decision on his future while Switzerland remain in the World Cup. At present, the winger is focused entirely on the tournament.

Before leaving for international duty, he had already indicated that, if he leaves Sevilla, he wants to join a club playing European football.

That could strengthen Aston Villa’s position compared to Championship side West Ham. This applies should both clubs eventually pursue a deal.

From Sevilla’s perspective, interest from England is welcome. The La Liga side need to generate significant transfer income this summer.

Additionally, they believe Premier League clubs are the most likely to meet their valuation. Vargas and Akor Adams are regarded as two of their most valuable assets.

Whether Aston Villa eventually move for the Swiss international may now depend on one key factor – if they cannot prise Summerville away from West Ham, Vargas is already waiting on their shortlist.