OPINION
Aston Villa are reportedly one of three Championship teams that are in talks with Southampton about signing their youngster Sam Gallagher
Sky Sports reported on their transfer blog (7:36pm, Thursday 17th) that Villa, Derby and Birmingham have all held initial talks about taking the 21-year-old striker on loan for the season.
It is understood that the Saints are willing to let the Englishman leave on a temporary basis and he is attracting serious interest from the Championship.
Good move for Villa?
Villa have started the season poorly and are still without a win in their opening three leagues, but still have time to save themselves in the remainder of the window.
Steve Bruce needs another striker in his squad desperately as Scott Hogan and Jonathan Kodjia are injury-prone players.
Southampton ace Gallagher would be a decent fit for the Midlands club and would chip in with some valuable goals.
The striker made 43 appearances last season in the Championship for relegated side Blackburn, but still managed to standout in the struggling team.
He managed 11 goals and three assists for them, but those numbers could even rise if given better service at Villa.
This Is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
Villa do look desperate for a new forward and it seems likely that there could be a new arrival before the window closes.
The fact that Southampton are looking to offload Gallagher on loan means this deal is possible and the forward will be desperate to get more first-team experience.
The potential obstacles could come from a loan fee or his wages, but Villa have shown their faith in backing Bruce during the past two transfer windows.
Derby and Birmignham will also feel confident about landing Gallagher, but ultimately it could be the player who decides.
This Is Futbol rating: 6/10