Aston Villa were linked with a move for Toni Leistner in early-March with Dean Smith desperate to bolster his centre-back options for next season. Axel Tuanzebe and Tyrone Mings will return to Manchester United and Bournemouth after their respective loan spells at Villa Park, leaving the Midlands outfit short on central defenders.
Leistner, who was linked with Villa last summer, has impressed since joining QPR on a free transfer from Union Berlin and could be the subject of interest from many clubs when the campaign comes to a close. With QPR closer to the relegation zone than the Championship playoffs, they may struggle to keep their best players. Reports says a £5m deal could be enough to sign him.
The 28-year-old has made 34 league appearances this season, scoring and creating three goals. He’s averaged a tackle (43) or interception (50) every 32 minutes and has made 245 clearances. Leistner has blocked 32 shots, won 143 aerial duels and averages 37 passes-per-game. He’s picked up eight yellow cards and given away 36 fouls.
He’s the captain of QPR and has missed only one league game this season. Villa could make their interest official when the summer transfer window opens.
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