The latest update on Villa’s search for striking reinforcements has seen an intial bid of £15 million rejected by Bournemouth.
CALLUM WILSON
Embed from Getty ImagesWith Villa’s pursuit of Ollie Watkin’s proving protracted, the club is now stepping up efforts to shore up the attack with the new season looming ever closer.
Wilson has been on the radar for a number of weeks, with earlier reports indicating Dean Smith’s interest cemented by developments just two days ago.
The 28 year old England international has been a consistent figure for Bournemouth having overcome two serious knee injuries.
Whilst last season wasn’t prolific, seeing Wilson notch just 8 goals, he is arguably now in his prime of a career that might not have reached the heights some may have predicted.
Objectively, Villa lack pedigree up-front. Wesley, although showing glimpses of promise, remains sidelined and with the jury still out. Samatta produced little when presented with a first team run as Villa teetered towards the drop and Keinan Davis doesn’t look capable of scoring the goals we need.
Wilson would bring Premier League experience and perhaps a point to prove as Smith looks to equip the side for an important second season which mustn’t become bogged down in survival.
Villa must also overcome Newcastle, with Steve Bruce holding an interest in taking the striker to St James’. Spurs too are remotely linked. However the Magpies are reported to have offered a player incentive rather than the cash that Villa have put on the table, putting up Matt Ritchie as bait.
Villa have had an offer of £15 million up-front, plus £5 million add-ons rejected. Wilson is also known to have a current weekly wage of around £70,000, which Bournemouth will be keen to move off the balance sheet following relegation.
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