Celtic are now facing competition for one of their top summer targets with Aston Villa entering the race to sign an “outstanding” player, who is set to be available on a free transfer this summer.
Villa looking to strengthen in defence
Villa haven’t been in the best of form in recent weeks, winning one of their last five matches in all competitions, and they only just managed to scrape a point against Leeds United in the Premier League on Saturday.
Tammy Abraham’s late strike from close range ensured the spoils were shared at Villa Park, but the chances of Unai Emery‘s side competing for the title this season are looking increasingly remote, with Manchester City and Arsenal picking up victories.
However, the Villans are still on course to qualify for the Champions League, which should put them in a position to sign some top players in the summer, at which point they are looking to replace Lucas Digne.
That is according to former scout Mick Brown, who said: “I expect Villa will be looking to replace Digne.
“I’m told they’re not particularly happy with how he’s been playing recently, and if they can identify somebody to come in and replace him, they’ll want to do it.
Should Digne depart, Emery will need to bring in a new option at left-back, and according to a report from Caught Offside, Aston Villa have now surged into the packed race to sign Liverpool star Andy Robertson, whose contract is set to expire at the end of the season.
Celtic are again credited with an interest in signing their former academy player, having been long-term admirers, but Villa’s status as a Premier League top four contender puts them on the back foot, while there could also be competition from Crystal Palace, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Atletico Madrid.
As things stand, Robertson is set to be available on a free transfer this summer, but his wage demands could be high, considering the full-back currently pockets £160k-a-week at Anfield, again favouring a move within the English top flight.
“Outstanding” Robertson could be solid Digne replacement
At 31-years-old, the Liverpool defender is around eight years younger than Digne, and it would be fair to say he has achieved far more in the game, winning nine trophies, including two Premier League titles and the 2018-19 Champions League during his time with the Reds.
Lauded as “outstanding” by journalist Jim Nichol-Turner, the 90-time Scotland international is vastly experienced, making 367 appearances for the Reds, during which time he has contributed 12 goals and 68 assists.
The former Hull City man has fallen down the pecking order at Liverpool this season, with Milos Kerkez taking his place in the starting XI, but he has impressed at times when called upon, putting in a top display in a 6-0 victory against Qarabag at the end of last month.
Robertson’s key stats vs Qarabag
Number completed
Big chances created
2
Key passes
7
Interceptions
2
Long balls (accurate)
5 (4)
At 31-years-old, Robertson may still have a few more years left at the top level, and he could be a solid replacement for Digne.