Villa haven’t been hanging around during the summer transfer window and look set to strike again in acquiring rising talent.
Though the club have already moved to shore up the first team squad, with Coutinho, Kamara, Carlos and Olsen confirmed, the acquisition of youth remains a clear priority.
After years of under-performance, Villa have in recent seasons turned its academy system on its head. This has been in part through improving facilities, refreshing coaching personnel, but also by adding high quality youngsters from across the game (e.g. Louie Barry).
Embed from Getty ImagesThe latest rumour strongly links Villa with teenage striker Rory Wilson who has recently left Steven Gerrard’s former club Rangers.
RORY WILSON
The Scottish Under-17 striker is thought of as one of the most talented prospects to emerge from Rangers’ youth set-up in recent years. However, the 16 year old has opted to depart Ibrox and is anticipated to move to a Premier League side, with Villa firm favourites to grab his signature.
Whilst a part of Rangers’ under-18 squad and the international youth set up for the national side, Wilson scored an impressive 49 goals in all competitions last season. It’s therefore no wonder he has turned heads.
It’s understood that Villa have been tracking the prolific striker since at least March of this year, with former Rangers and Liverpool boss Steven Gerrard a major lure.
At just 16, Wilson very much remains a youngster and time will tell whether this translates into success at senior level. Either way, it is encouraging that Villa are alive to potential stand-out players within the game who could be signed and nurtured for the future.
Rangers will no doubt be frustrated at the loss of Wilson who has walked away from the club for nothing. This frustration could grow further, especially if Villa firm up their interest in Calvin Bassey.
IN OTHER NEWS
Embed from Getty ImagesIn a surprise appointment, Villa moved quickly to replace Michael Beale, with Blackpool boss Neil Critchley unveiled as Gerrard’s new assistant.
Critchley is one of the most highly regarded coaches in the game, having moved from Liverpool’s set-up to Blackpool, guiding them to promotion to The Championship.
The 43 year old worked his way up the management ladder at Anfield, leading both the under-18 and under-23 sides. He also infamously stepped in when Klopp and Liverpool contested the Club World Cup, with a Dean Smith Villa defeating his youthful side 5-0.