OPINION
Steve Bruce has just about assembled a squad that is capable of winning promotion back to the Premier League for Aston Villa this season.
Last-minute loans for Premier League stars Yannick Bolasie and Tammy Abraham really helped beef up their attack, as did a permanent move for winger Anwar El Ghazi.
Defence is now the area of concern for Bruce, with the club now looking at a potential deal for free agent veteran James Collins while also being linked with a return for John Terry.
Whatever happens in the next few months for Villa, an opportunity looks to be arising that the club can not afford to ignore come the January transfer window.
As reported by West Ham insider website Claret and Hugh, the Irons may be ready to sell midfielder Robert Snodgrass despite his impressive start to the season.
The Scotland international has started four matches for the Hammers so far this season and has made a real impact upon his return from his loan at Villa last season.
However, with competition for places increasing as the season goes on, it is said that West Ham may offload Snodgrass in January if the right offer comes in.
A source is quoted as saying: “Robert has done well and January is some way away – we will need to assess our options at that time.”
It is said that Villa are monitoring the situation after Snograss’ successful loan last season – the 31-year-old star scored eight goals and registered 13 assists in all competitions – and they must be on red alert after this update.
While they are now well-stocked in wide positions, the return of Snodgrass on a permanent deal could well be the boost they need to push them towards promotion.
And, with players like Bolasie and Abraham only at the club on loan, they will need to replace them after the season anyway, meaning a move for Snodgrass six months early makes perfect sense.
It is a no-brainer for the Villans who must now lay the groundwork for such a deal to go through in January.