Football Presse

Tzolis tells Man United and Aston Villa he is open to move from Brugge

·By Junior Yekini
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Tzolis tells Man United and Aston Villa he is open to move from Brugge

Aston Villa/X.com

Club Brugge winger Christos Tzolis has publicly opened the door to Manchester United and Aston Villa while firmly closing it on Crystal Palace and Newcastle United, delivering his clearest signal yet of a summer departure.

The 24-year-old Greece international, who joined Brugge from Fortuna Düsseldorf for €6.5 million in 2024, has since recorded 42 goals and 44 assists in 107 appearances to establish himself as the most effective winger in the Jupiler Pro League. He is understood to be the club's likely record sale this summer, with Brugge expecting a fee comfortably in excess of their current Belgian record.

Tzolis spoke to Het Nieuwsblad this week to set out exactly what he requires before agreeing to any transfer.

"It would have to be a Champions League team from England, Germany, Spain, or Italy," he said. "Only PSG is a better option than Club."

That condition rules out Crystal Palace, who attempted to sign him last summer with a €32 million bid that Brugge rejected. When asked about the prospect of returning to that conversation, Tzolis was unequivocal.

"In that case, I'd refuse. The Crystal Palace train has already left the station for me."

Newcastle United, who had been linked with Tzolis as a possible replacement for Anthony Gordon, fall into the same category given their failure to qualify for the Champions League this season.

Manchester United's position is different. Michael Carrick's side finished third in the Premier League and return to European football next season, meeting the criteria Tzolis has set.

"United could convince me," he said. "Such a massive club with so much history. It would be hard to say no to that."

Aston Villa, who won the Europa League this season under Unai Emery and will play in the Champions League next term, also qualify. The club have had Tzolis on their wishlist for several months.

Tzolis contracted to Brugge until 2029 and the club hold full control over any deal. He acknowledged as much.

"It's not up to me to decide. We'll see what the best option is for me. It's not just about the name — we have to ask what the best project is."

He also made clear he is not agitating for a move.

"I have everything I need to be happy here. Playing in the Champions League again, fantastic teammates."

Juventus have also been mentioned as interested parties. The bidding war, if it develops, will be decided in the weeks following the World Cup.