Sunderland and Aberdeen in ‘two-horse race’ for Aston Villa starlet

Aston Villa youngster Lamare Bogarde is set for another loan spell following a recent recall from Bristol Rovers. The 19-year-old saw his second Rovers spell ended prematurely, with Sunderland now showing interest.

The Athletic reports the Black Cats aim to add Bogarde, who can play as a central midfielder or centre-back, to their ranks until the end of the season. They face competition from Aberdeen, however, as the Scottish Premiership outfit are said to have contacted Villa.

Unai Emery’s side have a tricky decision to make as the Championship is probably a higher level for Bogarde to develop, but Aberdeen would likely offer more game time. The priority is whichever move gets the player the most exposure.

Bogarde, who played 18 times in League One for Bristol Rovers before his loan recall, knows Sunderland boss Michael Beale well from the pair’s time together at Villa Park. That could have an impact.

In other news, Kourtney Hause has been seen training with the first-team. The 28-year-old has had a lengthy spell on the sidelines and is now back training ahead of a possible appearance in the FA Cup against Middlesbrough. He uploaded a photo of himself at the Bodymoor Heath training ground with the caption: "Finally back in full training with the boys."

The centre-back was not named in the 25-man Premier League squad or in the UEFA Europa Conference League. His last competitive match for the Villa came in September 2022 and he has yet to play under Unai Emery. It is possible that he could depart Villa Park on a loan deal this window with his contract expiring in the summer of 2025.