John McGinn: Pundit can’t believe Aston Villa could sanction ‘£40m’ deal after Tottenham report
Aston Villa will try and block a Tottenham move for John McGinn this summer because they want to be competing with Antonio Conte’s side next term, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 27-year-old would cost Spurs “at least £40million”.
According to The Telegraph (18 May), McGinn is being targeted by Tottenham ahead of the summer window with Conte looking to take advantage of their Champions League qualification.
The Scotland international, who made 34 league appearances during the 2021-22 campaign, is under contract at Aston Villa until June 2025.
Whelan hailed the former Hibernian star’s spell with the Midlands giants.
He told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge: “Will Aston Villa let him go to a side they will be hoping to compete with this season?
“They’d be selling a player that could well help them push into the European places. I can’t see it.
“He’s been a fantastic servant for Aston Villa, I love watching him play. He’s a key part of everything they do, whether that’s going forwards or defending.
“It’d cost Tottenham at least £40million, I would imagine.”
Steven Gerrard’s side finished 14th in his first season in charge at Villa Park.
Aston Villa have already been active in the market as they seek a top-half finish next term, turning Philippe Coutinho’s loan spell into a permanent move and signing French midfielder Boubacar Kamara on a free transfer.
Reports linked Man United with a move for McGinn in the January transfer window but a transfer failed to materialise.
In other news, Aston Villa want A-list striker and are willing to sell Danny Ings to fund deal.