Aston Villa have made a formal bid to sign Galatasaray winger Nicolo Zaniolo, according to reports.

The 24-year-old has been linked with a move to Newcastle United in recent weeks, but Villa are now the frontrunners for his signature.

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Zaniolo has a £30 million release clause, but Villa are hoping to negotiate a lower fee with Galatasaray.

The Italian international is keen on the move to Villa Park and is said to be impressed by the project being put together by manager Unai Emery.

On Friday, Emery addressed the Zaniolo transfer rumours. “He is one on the list and there are others,” the ex-Arsenal boss said. “There could be one or more with the potential to come here. Right now it is not 100 per cent clear who they are.”

Football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano also recently reported that Villa have made an offer for Zaniolo.

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Galatasaray are however, not keen on a loan and Fanatik journalist Yakup Cinar revealed that Villa have sent a delegation to Istanbul for talks.

Additionally, Zaniolo recently bought a house in Istanbul and is willing to stay if he doesn’t receive the right offer.

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The winger is a versatile player who can play on either wing or in attacking midfield. He is also a good goalscorer, with five goals in 12 appearances for Galatasaray since joining in January.