On the eve of Villa’s Premier League opener, deferred 9 days after other teams have kicked off due to Manchester City’s European involvement, the transfer rumours keep coming.
Dean Smith has significantly bolstered Villa’s attacking options, breaking the clubs transfer record by adding £33m Ollie Watkins, before securing Bertrand Traore in a deal worth up to £19m.
With Wesley expected to continue recuperating after a dreadful knee injury until at least the New Year, Villa are still exploring adequate cover up front.
With Callum Wilson opting to work under master tactician Steve Bruce, Dean Smith has turned his attentions to other strikers to support new-boy Watkins.
Josh King, the 48 goal Norwegian international striker is heavily linked.
For others it remains a waiting game. Edouard, the prolific Celtic striker, is reportedly holding out for a bigger move. Whether that materialises remains to be seen.
There also remains uncertainty within the existing squad.
Mbwana Samatta has overall failed to impress, especially during the crucial post-lockdown period with a number of lacklustre performances. The Tanzanian therefore finds himself heavily linked with a move away from VP with Smith perhaps resigning himself to a dud January purchase.
Wesley also cannot escape the rumour-mill, despite his protracted layoff, he has long time admirers in Italy in the form of Lazio. That rumour hasn’t gone away either.
KEINAN DAVIS
Embed from Getty ImagesDavis’ future at best remains unclear.
The 22 year old remains a head scratcher. The forward has a number of endearing technical attributes, namely his hold up play and excellent close control. However, a simple lack of goals may open the door to a move away.
Davis played and scored against Burton Albion in Villa’s 2nd Round victory last weekend, but has been linked to at least two sides in the Championship during the summer.
Blackburn and Preston aside, the latest club rumoured to be keeping a watching brief are Sheffield Wednesday.
Garry Monk has lost three strikers during the window and has been thwarted in his recruitment attempts recently. According to the Yorkshire based press, Davis represents a possible fit.
For Villa, Davis has the potential to be an asset to the squad across the campaign. However, much depends upon whether Smith can acquire “better” PL ready alternatives or the attackers own desire to play regular first team football.
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