Aston Villa were handed a stark reminder of their need to improve after a disastrous FA Cup defeat to League Two side Stevenage on Sunday afternoon. New manager Unai Emery has made a decent start in the Premier League with 10 points collected out of a possible 15, but Villa are already out of both cup competitions.
Villa are yet to bring in any new recruits this January despite calls from Emery suggesting he wants to sign a winger. There have been plenty of rumours circulating that the Lions are also looking at signing another option at left-back, as well as adding depth at centre back and defensive midfield. Not one new face has arrived yet, though, much to the concern of supporters.
The 2-1 defeat to Stevenage had attention from all over the country as it was the biggest upset in the FA Cup Third Round, causing even more embarrassment for Emery and his men. There is now a sense of urgency to get fresh players through the door with some key Premier League fixtures against Leeds United and Southampton fast approaching.
The period between the trip to St. Mary’s on January 21 and the following game at home to Leicester City on February 4 could be key as it gives the Lions the opportunity to turn more attention to transfers. It is likely there will be some activity before then, though.
Here is how we rate the likelihood of certain linked players heading to Villa Park this winter, out of 10.
1. Samuel Chukwueze - 7/10
Villa have “concrete interest” in the winger who has been on Emery’s radar ever since he joined the club. Nothing to suggest a bid yet, though.
2. Gerard Deulofeu - 7/10
An enquiry has reportedly been made for the Udinese forward, who is also wanted by Juventus.
3. Harry Maguire - 2/10
Man Utd have “laughed off” speculation linking Maguire with a move away after the defender was spotted dining out in Birmingham.
4. Ismaila Sarr - 5/10
Someone the Lions have been after for a while but Watford are reluctant to let Sarr go. A bid was said to be rejected before the window began.