Free agent could be perfect risk-free transfer option for Aston Villa - Opinion

Aston Villa have the chance to freshen up their ranks with some additions ahead of the new Premier League season. They also have the opportunity to let some players head out the exit door as well if needed. That would help free up space and funds in their squad to pave the way for reinforcements.

Unai Emery has been in charge at Villa Park since joining back in 2022. The Spaniard has since made a positive impression having previously had spells with the likes of PSG, Arsenal and Villarreal. His side missed out on the Champions League in the last campaign on the final day and will be looking to get back in as soon as possible.

Aston Villa linked with Dominic Calvert-Lewin

Aston Villa have been linked with a move for striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin following his exit from Everton. According to The Sun, they are in the frame for his signature this summer. However, they face competition from league rivals Newcastle United and Serie A giants AC Milan.

Calvert-Lewin, 28, is a free agent after cutting ties with the Toffees. He officially saw his deal with the Merseyside club expire in late June. The forward is now weighing up his options and is considering his next move in the game.

Aston Villa will see him as someone to boost their attacking department. If he joined, he would give them something different to pick from at the top end of the pitch. In addition, he would be ideal competition and cover for Ollie Watkins up top.

Calvert-Lewin started his career at Sheffield United and rose up through their academy. He was a regular for the Blades at various different youth levels before going on to play 12 games for their first-team. The South Yorkshire team also loaned him out away from Bramall Lane at Stalybridge Celtic and Northampton Town to get some experience under his belt.

Everton came calling for his signature back in 2016. He went on to make 274 appearances for the Toffees in all competitions and scored 71 goals, three of which came in the last campaign. It remains to be seen at this stage where he will end up going next.

Why Dominic Calvert-Lewin would suit Aston Villa

When fit, Calvert-Lewin has proved he can score goals at the top level in the past. He was a great servant to Everton during his time there and there was a reason why they kept hold of him for nine years. The player has made 11 caps for England in the past and needs to find somewhere he can get his career back on track.

He would definitely be worth a punt by Aston Villa. If anything, he would simply be a solid back-up option for Watkins. He would be a useful person to have in and around the dressing room due to his experience.

The fact they wouldn’t have to pay a fee for him would also save the club money. That means they could have cash left over to pursue other targets in different positions. Emery’s men will be competing in the Europa League next term and need as much depth across the board as possible to deal with the workload of fixtures due to come their way.