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Talks opened: Aston Villa move closer to midfielder transfer – report
By Russell Edge
Aston Villa have opened talks over the transfer of midfielder Jordan Veretout, according to a report.
French football news outlet But Football Club report that discussions have recently taken place over the permanent transfer of Veretout to Ligue 1 side Saint Etienne, where the midfielder is currently on loan.
The report claims that while there is no clause in the loan deal to make the move permanent, both clubs are willing to hold talks with a view to seeing the midfielder depart Villa Park.
The 24-year-old midfielder joined Villa in the summer of 2015 but failed to prevent the club from suffering relegation, making 25 appearances but failing to find the net.
He joined Saint Etienne on loan in August 2016 and has gone on to make 29 appearances for the French side, scoring three goals.
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Football Insider verdict:
After a disappointing first season in the Championship, Villa fans will be hoping their side can be challenging for promotion next season. Steve Bruce has a busy summer ahead, so it is important he gets as much preparation done before the transfer window opens. It appears Jordan Veretout does not feature in Bruce’s plans, and with a long and hard Championship season next season, it is crucial to get rid of any deadwood from the side. Veretout may very well be the first of a number of departures from Villa Park this season, as boss Bruce looks to impose his own style of play with his own choice of players.
In other Aston Villa transfer news, the club have been made favourites to sign a 25 goal 19-year-old striker.
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