Chelsea could be in line for a £43 million payday if Alejandro Garnacho impresses during his loan spell at Aston Villa. The winger joined Unai Emery’s side on a season-long deal this summer, with an obligation to buy if certain conditions are met.

The future fee is understood to be appearance-based, meaning Chelsea will be hoping Garnacho becomes a key player at Villa Park. However, the 22-year-old has made five appearances this season, totalling just 60 minutes of action.

Garnacho played only 18 minutes in Villa’s 3-2 Champions League victory over Viking on Wednesday night, but he still caught the eye. Villa fans were particularly impressed, describing his performance as “absolutely explosive.”

Aston Villa fans react to Alejandro Garnacho’s Champions League performance

Aston Villa fans were impressed by Alejandro Garnacho’s performance against Viking, with several supporters taking to social media to praise his impact off the bench. The Chelsea loanee came close to scoring with a thunderous curling effort that flew just wide of the top-right corner.

Later, he broke away from two Viking defenders before having another shot saved. The former Manchester United star was also not afraid to take on opponents and deliver a couple of dangerous crosses, something he was sometimes criticised for not doing enough at Chelsea.

One fan described Garnacho as “pure electricity from the bench”. They continued: “Absolutely explosive cameo; terrified the defence from the second he stepped onto the pitch. Incredibly unlucky not to cap it off with a goal.”

A second added: “Thought Garnacho had a good cameo yesterday. Came on for 20 minutes and looked lively going forward. Taking on players, could’ve even scored as well, and keeping the ball really well. Definitely more development in place, but positive signs.”

Another supporter was pleased with Garnacho’s progress under Unai Emery. “Pleased for him. He’s beginning to look like a very good player. Professor [Unai] Emery knows how to nurture talent, that’s for sure,” they wrote.

A fourth supporter backed Garnacho to keep improving. “Happy for Garnacho. Proved he wants it, and he’s getting closer. Should have scored tonight. Him, Alysson, [Ibrahim] Mbaye, [Johan] Manzambi. We are spoilt.”

Meanwhile, the Argentine winger appeared to win over fans by acknowledging the Holte End after fans sang his name. “It was nice seeing him give the little acknowledgement to the Holte End when we were singing for him,” a supporter posted. “Hoping this is a sign of him turning a corner; most minutes he’s had for us so far and best he’s looked.”

Head coach Unai Emery was also pleased with Garnacho’s contribution, suggesting the winger is beginning to find his feet at Villa Park. “Garnacho played 20 minutes, and these were his best minutes with us, so this is positive,” the Villa boss said at his post-match press conference.

Although Garnacho is still waiting for a regular starting role, the reaction from Villa’s fans and manager suggests his latest appearance has given them reason to be optimistic. For Chelsea, his continued progress could prove important if they are to receive the potential £43 million fee included in his loan agreement.