Dean Smith has made Southampton defender Matt Targett his top target for competition at left-back as he continues to rebuild for the Premier League, according to the Sun.
The report claims that Aston Villa are plotting a £10million bid for the 23-year-old.
Targett’s move to Fulham broke down in January after he spent a successful loan spell in west London in the 17/18 season.
Targett made 16 Premier League appearances for Southampton last season with 13 starts and he has been capped at England Under-21 level.
Good move for Aston Villa?
We like Targett but his career seems to be going nowhere at Southampton. He broke into their first team back in the 14/15 season and went on to make 14 league appearances in 15/16. He spent the second-half of the 17/18 season on loan at Fulham where he impressed enough for them to try to sign him in January. However, that fell through and Aston Villa will now try to bring him to Villa Park. Targett only made 13 starts in the Premier League last season, but still provided attacking returns with a goal and three assists from the left. He also offers versatility and can play in a more advanced position in midfield.
This is Futbol rating: 7/10
Likely to happen?
Targett needs to move on from Southampton but he will be keen to get first-team football wherever he goes. Neil Taylor is the current number one and Targett will feel that he’s got a good chance of usurping him. Aston Villa have the money to spend and if they’re serious then we think this one could go through.
This is Futbol rating: 7/10