Aston Villa's January transfer priority revealed - Insider

Aston Villa are plotting a move to sign a new right-back in the January transfer window, according to the club's former scout.

Mick Brown, who also spent time in the scouting departments at the likes of Man United and Tottenham and remains very well-connected at Villa Park, exclusively told Football Insider that the position has emerged as a priority for Unai Emery.

Brown told Football Insider as early as 5 October that Villa staff have raised concerns about Matty Cash and were considering signing a potential replacement.

As the winter transfer window approaches, the scouting department are now assessing their options and want to add extra pace to their back line.

Emery's side are currently on an eight-game winless run in all competitions, and are expected to turn to the transfer market to reverse their fortunes.

Additions to their defence and midfield are thought to be at the top of their list of priorities, with a new right-back leading that list.

Aston Villa plotting move to sign new right-back in January

Football Insider revealed in September that Villa have been looking at a right-sided full-back as a long-term priority amid concerns about injury issues at the back.

Now, Brown, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, explained that Villa want to add quality strength in depth to Emery's first-team squad.

"They really lack pace in their team, especially at the back," he told Football Insider.

"It's obvious they think they can improve on Cash and sign a better option in his position.

"From what I'm told, they'll make that a priority in January.

"They've been a bit restricted in what they can spend, but they're willing to dip into the market because they need to strengthen their squad.

"The recent issues they've faced and the dip in form and performances is largely because they're playing at a higher level.

"The best way to get around that is to add to your squad, both in terms of depth and quality, and they feel they need to do that at right-back."

In other news, Oihan Sancet ‘top of Aston Villa transfer list’.

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