Aston Villa told to hijack Craig Dawson deal after source’s January reveal – pundit
Noel Whelan has claimed Aston Villa should move for West Ham’s Craig Dawson in January after their defensive struggles this season.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the 32-year-old’s “experience” could be crucial for the Midlands giants.
Football Insider revealed on Friday (28 October) that Dawson wants to leave West Ham in January after failing to secure a summer move to Wolves.
Dawson wanted to quit the London Stadium to be closer to his family in Cheshire and it is believed he is still keen to head north.
The veteran centre-back, who is out of contract at the end of the season, has made just five starts this season after struggling with injury.
This site also revealed on 28 October that Aston Villa are in the market for a centre-back to cast new doubt on the future of Tyrone Mings under new boss Unai Emery.
Whelan suggested Dawson could be a “short-term” fix for Emery as he looks to shore up his new sides’ leaky rearguard.
He told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “He’s been a fantastic player at West Ham.
“He’s a leader, and when times are tough you need someone like that who can be vocal and organise.
“He can do that – we saw the difference he made when he came to West Ham, because he was one of their best players for a time.
“That experience could be vital to Aston Villa while they’re in a really sticky, tough period.
“Yes, it’s not going to be long-term. But for the short term, to barricade that defence – it could be a smart move.”
In other news, pundit claims Aston Villa star may have “long-term injury” after “really dangerous” behaviour.