Aston Villa first-team trio could go through exit doors if they lose play-off final – report
Aston Villa may lose three first teamers due to a poor financial situation if they suffer defeat to Fulham on Saturday in the play-off final, according to a report.
The Daily Telegraph claims that Jack Grealish, James Chester and Jonathan Kodjia could be set for the exit doors if the Midlands giants lose, while they to scrap deals to sign Robert Snodgrass, Sam Johnstone and Lewis Grabban on permanent deals.
It is understood that a loss to Fulham could see them break Financial Fair Play rules and hit with a transfer embargo.
Villa may have to even the books if they don’t win the £170million play-off game with Fulham and could even have to sell their training complex alongside players if they lose.
Football Insider verdict:
Villa face the biggest game in the club’s history in recent years and it seems like they could be in a real spot of bother if they don’t succeed. Steve Bruce’s side are coming up against a Fulham side that have dazzled in the Championship this campaign and may be slight favourites going into the contest. However, Villa have a real good defensive shape about them and the experience of captain John Terry is going to be vital at Wembley. Grealish, Chester and Kodjia are all senior players that Villa will be desperate to keep hold of next year and could play a role if they earn promotion to the Premier League. However, it would rip the spine of their team apart if they all left and it is imperative they get the job done against Fulham, even if it doesn’t make for a pretty spectacle. Villa need to snuff out Fulham’s exciting defence and would take a 1-0 scrap right now.
In other Aston Villa transfer news, the club are certain to consider making an approach for this Premier League forward with 19 goals this season.