Aston Villa are after a centre-back in January, targeting the likes of Chelsea’s Ethan Ampadu and former West Ham United defender James Collins, but the Midlands outfit also need a left-back due to a lack of depth. Neil Taylor is the club’s only available first-team option and needs cover in case of injury.
Jordan Amavi was sold to Olympique Marseille over the summer and no replacement was brought in for the Frenchman. Taylor wasn’t even a regular at left-back earlier on in the season. Instead it was Alan Hutton used in a makeshift role under Steve Bruce before his departure.
Taylor has started each of Villa’s last six Championship games but had only racked up 194 minutes of playing time up until October. Dean Smith needs a another left-back option for the long-term and has previously stated his desire to avoid putting square pegs in round holes.
Villa may not have funds to make a permanent signing but there should be plenty of players available on loan, particular in the Premier League. Crystal Palace defender Pape Souare can’t get into the first-team this season and could be open to a temporary switch to a club that can promise him regular football.
Southampton’s Matty Target could be another option for Villa, with the left-back having made just two Premier League appearances this season.
