Aston Villa transfer target Luis Suarez is ‘still a world-class operator’ despite entering the twilight of his illustrious career, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.
The 35-year-old has been linked with a move away from Atletico Madrid in recent months after falling down the pecking order, with a reunion with Steven Gerrard widely mooted.
What is the latest news involving Suarez?
According to The Athletic’s Villa correspondent Gregg Evans, Gerrard ‘will monitor’ Suarez’s situation at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium closely over the summer ahead of a potential move.
Meanwhile, Spanish journalist Gerard Romero claims the Uruguay international has ‘ruled out’ offers from Palmeiras, Corinthians and Atlético Mineiro to focus on a move to the Midlands outfit.
And Romero’s update has been backed up by the Daily Mail, who state that Suarez wants to move to another European side next season before linking up with close friend Lionel Messi for an MLS swansong to see out their playing days.
The South American has entered the final few months of his current contract with Atleti and is not expected to put pen to paper on fresh terms, meaning he will be allowed to leave on a free transfer.
And Gerrard could use his relationship with Suarez to pull off an audacious deal, bringing him to Villa Park, just as he managed with Philippe Coutinho during the January transfer window.
What has O’Rourke said about Suarez?
Throughout his career, Suarez has registered an incredible 435 goals and 240 assists for clubs such as Barcelona, Liverpool and Ajax, claiming a host of silverware, including one Champions League crown and five La Liga titles.
Cristiano Ronaldo MASTERCLASS as Man United beat Spurs 3-2! Full reaction on The Football Terrace...
Although he may not be at the peak of his powers anymore, O’Rourke still believes the prolific marksman would be a ‘good signing’ for Villa.
He told GiveMeSport: “I think you’ve got to say, Luis Suarez, on his day, is still a world-class operator.
“He's maybe not getting any younger right now, but on a free transfer, I think he'd still be a good signing for someone like Aston Villa.”
Do Aston Villa need another striker?
Villa are currently well-stocked in terms of quality in the forward areas. Both Ollie Watkins and Danny Ings have been performing well in recent weeks since Gerrard changed to a 4-3-1-2 formation.
The switch in approach has allowed them to form a deadly partnership, but there is currently no backup option in the first-team squad.
Youngster Keinan Davis has shown promise on loan at Nottingham Forest, although the cover and competition that Suarez’s arrival would bring would surely be heralded as a significant coup by Gerrard and Villa.