Aston Villa are preparing to make a bid for River Plate starlet Julian Alvarez as they search for Emile Smith Rowe alternatives.

What's the story?

Reports in recent days and weeks have claimed that Fernando Hidalgo, the agent of the 21-year-old, is set to meet with Villa's representatives over a move to Dean Smith's side ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

Following news of Smith Rowe's contract extension at Arsenal, it appears that Smith now has his sights set on another South American just like Emi Buendia.

According to TNT Sports (via HITC), Villa look set to step up their interest in Alvarez by lodging an official offer for the versatile attacker in the next couple of days.

Fans will be excited

The River Plate youngster is someone who can play anywhere across the frontline, and after a highly impressive campaign in his native Argentina, he was named as part of his country's Copa America squad this summer.

Like Smith Rowe, he is very much a creative attacker who can play behind the striker, bagging four goals and setting up another seven in just 20 appearances last season - including a couple of games where he plundered a hat-trick of assists against Godoy Cruz and Central Cordoba respectively.

Marcelo Gallardo, his manager at club level, has previously hailed the young Argentine as someone who "every coach would love to have."

After missing out on Smith Rowe's signature, a move for the equally highly-rated youngster Alvarez seems like the dream alternative for Villa.

From being potentially disappointed at Smith Rowe staying put to the excitement of possibly landing another talented prospect in Alvarez, this latest development should have fans buzzing.

Meanwhile, Aston Villa could sign their new Tony Daley in this star...