Aston Villa face ‘elite club’ interest for wonderkid as Premier League sides circle midfielder

Aston Villa are reportedly expected to have approaches from Premier League clubs for wonderkid midfielder Tim Iroegbunam, who has impressed while out on loan with Queens Park Rangers this season. The 19-year-old has played 14 times for the Hoops so far this term, playing predominantly in the centre of the park.

The Villans were reluctant to let him leave even on loan in the summer, but then-QPR boss Michael Beale was able to convince then-Villa head coach Steven Gerrard to allow Iroegbunam’s temporary departure. It is hoped the Birmingham-born star will soon be capable of playing in the top flight.

According to The Athletic this morning (December 15), interest “is growing among elite clubs” in the country, alluding to Premier League sides with financial power. These teams are said to have “put him on their watchlists” ahead of the January and summer transfer windows. Villa have no plans to sell Iroegbunam, however, as the report firmly states.

The youngster has made four senior appearances for the Lions since signing from West Bromwich Albion in 2021, three of which have been in the Premier League. He has only played 91 minutes in the division but he was only 18 years old then. Now, a year on, Iroegbunam has developed his skillsets further and he is far closer to being a contender for more game time.

Although Villa have no plans to sell him at this stage, a big money offer could soon change that. It was a similar situation with Carney Chukwuemeka last campaign and it didn’t take him long to make a £15 million switch to Premier League rivals Chelsea. For now, though, Iroegbunam is expected to stay at Loftus Road until the end of the season.