Aston Villa's interest in AC Milan winger Rafael Leao appears to be over, with the club instead closing in on an agreement to sign Paris Saint-Germain teenager Ibrahim Mbaye for €55 million (£46.5m).

According to The Athletic's David Ornstein, Villa have reached a deal in principle for the 18-year-old, with only final formalities remaining before the transfer is confirmed. The close personal ties between PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and Villa co-owner Nassef Sawiris are reported to have been instrumental in pushing the agreement over the line.

Why Mbaye signals the end for Leao

Villa had been genuine contenders for Leao in the final days of the window. Sky Sports and Italian transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio had both reported that manager Unai Emery held direct talks with the Portuguese winger to outline his plans. Yet committing €55 million to Mbaye — who operates in the same left-sided attacking role — makes it clear that Villa have settled on their preferred long-term option, effectively ending any prospect of a deal for Leao.

Rebuilding at Villa Park

The pursuit of Mbaye comes during a demanding summer at Villa Park. A significant squad overhaul has seen Morgan Rogers, Lucas Digne, Ezri Konsa, and Youri Tielemans all leave the club following their UEFA Europa League triumph, forcing Emery to reshape his squad under considerable financial constraints.

Uncertainty surrounding Ollie Watkins and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has added further pressure, making the arrival of new attacking talent a priority for the club.

Talks between Villa and Mbaye had been ongoing for several months, though discussions stalled at points during the window as the teenager considered interest from other clubs. With the transfer deadline drawing near, negotiations resumed and a deal has now been reached.

The Senegalese international is now set to begin his Premier League career at Villa Park, bringing one of the summer's more drawn-out transfer sagas to a close — and firmly shutting the door on any move for Leao.