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Arsenal are now in danger of missing out on the signing of top talent, as Aston Villa have emerged as the frontrunners in the race to sign highly-rated Norwegian teenager Sverre Nypan, with the 18-year-old midfielder expected to leave Rosenborg this summer.
Nypan, who was on the radar of both Arsenal and Girona during the January transfer window, is valued at around £10 million by his current club. While several sides remain in contention, Villa are believed to be in pole position after a recent scouting visit by their president of football operations, Monchi.
The Spanish executive was seen at Rosenborg’s Eliteserien clash against Vålerenga on Monday, fuelling speculation over Villa’s interest. Nypan’s father, Arne, later confirmed to Norwegian outlet Adresseavisen that he met with Monchi at the match, though he was quick to clarify the nature of their discussions.
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“It was a pleasant meeting, but there were no negotiations—just a very nice conversation before an exciting football match,” Arne Nypan said. “There are a lot of rumours about Sverre right now. Aston Villa are a big and fantastic club, but beyond that, I have no comment.”
Sverre Nypan (Image credit: Getty Images)Nypan previously visited Villa in January, but he and his father opted to postpone a final decision regarding his future until the summer to allow for a more thoughtful evaluation of his options.
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Rosenborg sporting director Micke Dorsin also confirmed interest in the young midfielder remains high, with other clubs—including Nottingham Forest—now monitoring the situation.
“There are many clubs watching many players today,” Dorsin told TV2. “Sverre is one of them. It’s a positive sign for him and for Norwegian football.”
Arsenal were among the clubs keen to sign Nypan in January as they looked to add depth to Mikel Arteta’s squad. However, it remains unclear whether the Gunners are still in the running following the recent appointment of Andrea Berta as their new sporting director, replacing Edu Gaspar.
Arsenal’s primary focus in the upcoming transfer window is understood to be securing a new striker to strengthen their attacking options.
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