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Aston Villa close to signing Ibrahim Mbaye from PSG in reported €55M deal
The 18-year-old Senegalese winger, who became the youngest African to score in World Cup history, is set to leave PSG amid interest from multiple Premier League clubs
Aston Villa is pushing to land one of European football’s most coveted young talents, with the club in advanced discussions to sign Ibrahim Mbaye from Paris Saint-Germain. If completed, the transfer would represent one of Villa’s biggest-ever signings and a significant statement of intent from the Birmingham club.
Mbaye, who turned 18 in January, has been one of the breakout stories of the 2025-26 season. The Trappes-born winger of Senegalese descent made history at the 2026 World Cup by becoming the youngest African goalscorer in the tournament’s history, a moment that instantly elevated his profile from “promising PSG academy product” to “transfer target for half the Premier League.”
A bidding war takes shape
Villa’s interest in Mbaye stretches back to at least May 2026, when initial reports placed his valuation at around €40M. That number climbed steadily as the summer progressed. By mid-summer, the price tag had risen to roughly €50M, fueled by competition from Liverpool and Newcastle, both of whom have been tracking the teenager.
Liverpool, in particular, appeared to be a serious contender. Reports surfaced in mid-August suggesting the Merseyside club had agreed personal terms with Mbaye on a five-year contract, though some sources have contested that characterization.
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Mbaye has logged 42 senior appearances for PSG, contributing 4 goals and 4 assists. He accumulated that tally while competing for minutes on one of the most talent-rich rosters in world football, and he’s still younger than most university freshmen.
His contract with PSG runs through June 2028, which gives the Parisian club reasonable leverage but also creates a familiar dynamic: sell now at a premium, or risk losing value as the contract winds down.
What Villa gets
Mbaye is primarily a winger who can operate on either flank, though he’s been deployed most often cutting inside from the right. His World Cup performance for Senegal put his speed, directness, and composure on a global stage. Villa manager Unai Emery has demonstrated a willingness to integrate young talent into his tactical system. Mbaye is also reportedly seeking guaranteed playing minutes, a factor that will bear on whichever club ultimately signs him.