Aston Villa’s long-standing interest in Sporting CP winger Geny Catamo is becoming increasingly complicated as the player’s market value continues to rise following growing interest from across Europe.
Villa were among the earliest clubs linked with the Mozambique international last summer, when Sporting were reportedly willing to consider offers in the region of €25m-€30m (£21m-£26m).
However, the situation has now changed significantly.
According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, Serie A side Como are currently leading the pursuit of the 25-year-old and have already had a €25m (£21m) offer rejected by Sporting.
The Italian club have since returned with improved proposals, with negotiations reportedly entering what has been described as an unpredictable phase.
Sporting Raise Catamo Valuation
Sporting’s stance on the winger has clearly shifted over recent months as Catamo’s performances and reputation have continued to improve.
While earlier reports suggested he could leave for between €20m and €30m, A Bola now claims Sporting are seeking a figure much closer to the player’s €60m (£51m) release clause.
The reason behind the increase is largely tied to Catamo’s continued development and growing impact at both domestic and European level.
The winger’s output has improved steadily in recent seasons. During the 2023/24 campaign, he registered six goals and five assists before following that with seven goals and three assists the next year.
This season has been his most productive yet, with Catamo contributing eight goals and four assists across 47 appearances in all competitions.
Champions League Displays Increased Interest
Catamo’s performances in the Champions League are also believed to have significantly increased interest in his signature.
A Bola specifically highlighted Sporting’s 2-1 victory over Paris Saint-Germain, where although Luis Suárez scored twice, Catamo was internally viewed as one of the team’s most influential players on the pitch.
His displays at the highest European level have strengthened Sporting’s negotiating position considerably heading into the summer transfer window.
Como’s Financial Strength Changes Situation
Como’s growing ambition is also playing a major role in the transfer battle.
Under the guidance of Cesc Fàbregas, the Italian side secured an unexpected fourth-place finish in Serie A and qualified directly for next season’s Champions League.
That achievement is expected to provide the club with between €35m and €50m (£30m-£43m) in additional revenue.
Como are also financially backed by the wealthy Hartono family, whose fortune is reportedly estimated at around €35 billion (£30bn), while former Arsenal and Barcelona striker Thierry Henry is also involved in the wider project.
Although Como may not possess the traditional stature of Italy’s biggest clubs, they now have the financial resources to compete aggressively in the transfer market.
Aston Villa Face Expensive Battle
Sporting’s position has also strengthened because they now fully own 100 per cent of Catamo’s rights after resolving a previous ownership arrangement last summer.
The winger is additionally under contract until 2029, further increasing Sporting’s leverage during negotiations.
As a result, Aston Villa are now facing the prospect of competing for one of Sporting’s most valuable assets in a transfer race that is becoming increasingly expensive.
