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According to Football Insider, Aston Villa are planning a summer move for Rangers right-back James Tavernier.
By sealing a deal, it could give Dean Smith’s side a frightening new method of attack.
What’s the word?
Tavernier has become a major force in Scotland over the last few years and, despite being a right back, he boasts an incredible goal-scoring and assist-providing record, making him one of the most dangerous players in the SPFL.
This term he’s scored 11 goals and claimed a further 14 assists from 33 league outings, proving vital to Steven Gerrard’s outfit.
And that record seems to have taken the interest of Aston Villa who, according to Football Insider, are planning on making an attempt to bring him back to England.
The full-back has played for Newcastle and Wigan on a permanent basis whilst also having various loan spells throughout the EFL.
New method of attack
Given Ahmed Elmohamady and Alan Hutton aren’t getting any younger, a new right-back – regardless of whether the club achieve promotion – will surely be a top priority for Villa this summer.
Tavernier is the very definition of a modern-day full-back and would be a tremendous replacement for the pair of them.
He’s only just entering his prime now at the age of 27 and his record in Scotland speaks for itself.
Should Villa get promoted, the Premier League would obviously be a significant step up but he could provide the club with a frightening new form of attack.
Despite being a defender his outstanding qualities lie in the final third of the pitch and, given the majority of the Villans’ creative play comes from central areas, he could be of huge benefit out wide.
Wingers Ahmed El Ghazi, Albert Adomah and Andre Green have claimed just nine assists between them in 2018/19. On the other hand, Elmohamady has assisted seven goals.
It’s still an impressive record but he doesn’t bolster the pace or finesse that Tavernier does. If that wasn’t enough, then he’s also a cool head from the penalty spot.
Tavernier’s speed can be a handful for any defence and he’s matured significantly since his last spell in the Premier League.
This is a deal that Smith needs to make happen.
