Nicolo Zaniolo’s future could take a sudden turn, with reports suggesting Aston Villa are considering sending the Italian attacker back to Galatasaray prematurely according to Aksam.

The newspaper, quote The Athletic’s Jacob Tanswell as breaking the story, reporting that Villa are contemplating cutting their loan short and returning Zaniolo to Galatasaray as early as the end of the current season.

At the season’s start, Galatasaray loaned Zaniolo to Aston Villa for €5 million with a €22 million purchase option. This move followed Galatasaray’s €15 million acquisition of Zaniolo from AS Roma last season.

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Villa would have to sign Zaniolo on a permanent move if he plays 30 Premier League games this season according to the terms of the contract.

Zaniolo has made 15 appearances in the league this season so technically he could still end up staying at Villa depending on Unai Emery’s team choices.

If Villa do decide to not go ahead with signing Zaniolo on a permanent move it would be a blow for Galatasaray who were expecting to make a profit on the forward.

On the flip side the Lions would be welcoming back an important player who was in form before he left and could strengthen the squad next season if he does return.

Though featuring in 25 official matches for Villa, Zaniolo managed only 2 goals. With inconsistent playing time and potential disciplinary issues, his impact fell short of expectations.