Russell Martin admits 'bids' received amid Aston Villa links to Southampton wonderkid

Aston Villa are reportedly interested in signing Southampton wonderkid Tyler Dibling but Saints head coach Russell Martin is confident a transfer away won’t materialise, even despite bids being made from unnamed clubs.

Dibling, still just 18 years old, has made his Premier League breakthrough this season with six starts and five substitute appearances. The wide attacker won a penalty against Manchester United and scored the opening goal in the 1-1 draw with Ipswich Town back in September.

Football Transfers reports Villa, closely monitoring Dibling’s progress, are leading the charge ahead several other Premier League clubs. It’s stated the Villans’ analysts have even compared the winger’s playing style - creative and skilful from wide - to £100 million superstar Jack Grealish.

Martin has been quick to fire back at transfer links, however, recently saying: "When you're 18 and you play in the Premier League to the level he's played at, I think every club in the world probably looks at you. He's ours.

“The club has turned down bids for him since I've been here. The speculation is nothing for him or for me. We are in a strong position. I'm sure we will look at securing that and strengthening that even more because if he carries on doing what he's doing then he will deserve that.”

Recently promoted to the England’s under-21s following success at under-19, under-18, under-17 and under-16 level, Dibling is on track to become a Premier League standard winger. He’s shown signs of already reaching those lofty heights, too, so there’s no wonder Southampton are so keen to keep hold of him.