As per one of the latest reports by Mail Online, Stoke City have made a bid of £10million to rope Aston Villa’s central defender, James Chester, to the bet365 Stadium. Gary Rowett has been taking shrewd decisions after being appointed as the manager of the club and he has his eyes on Chester at the moment.
The Villans are in a state of uncertainty despite their FFP sanctions being taken care of after the new investment. But Steve Bruce’s future is still in doubt with Thierry Henry tipped as the favourite to take over from him and the transfer policy is unclear at the moment with a couple of weeks remaining before the closure of the window.
With so many issues to sort out, there is a chance Chester’s sale might be sanctioned if a sizeable bid comes in. Here are three players whom Aston Villa could possibly target to replace the 29-year-old if he leaves this summer.
Robert Huth
After missing the entire 2017-18 season due to his ankle and foot injuries, Robert Huth eventually left Leicester City in June 2018. Having plied his trade for Chelsea, Middlesbrough, Stoke City and Leicester City, the 33-year-old has volumes of experience under his belt.
The centre-back is a strong and resilient defender and has the know-how of English football. With John Terry no longer in the ranks of the Villans, Huth can impart his leadership skills. Besides, he is a free agent now and thus, he would be an ideal player for Aston Villa.
Dan Burn
Wigan Athletic’s Dan Burn would also be an astute replacement for Chester. The 26-year-old was instrumental for Wigan last season garnering 53 appearances across all competitions for his side and helped them in getting promoted to the Championship.
Burn has a year left in his current contract with the Latics and Aston Villa could try to lure him to their ranks. His previous experience with teams such as Fulham, Yeovil Town and Birmingham City will definitely come handy.
Danny Batth
Nuno Espirito Santo has Willy Boly, Conor Coady and Ryan Bennett in his ranks at Wolverhampton Wanderers and thus, Danny Batth might not get an adequate amount of opportunities under the Portuguese. His move to Aston Villa could benefit all the parties involved.
Last season, he helped Wolves in getting promoted to the Premier League and his entry into the ranks of the Lions will inject winning-mentality in the squad. He is immensely experienced and has leadership traits on offer too.
Stats Courtesy: Whoscored
