Stefan de Vrij: Agbonlahor excited by Aston Villa source’s ‘big-money’ reveal
Gabby Agbonlahor has suggested Aston Villa should be looking to make “big-money” additions like Stefan de Vrij “all over the pitch” if they are to challenge for a top-six finish.
The former Claret and Blue striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 30-year-old would bring “quality depth” to Villa Park.
A recruitment source told Football Insider on 26 March that Holland international De Vrij is on Aston Villa’s radar as they plot more top-class signings to follow the January capture of Philippe Coutinho.
The centre-back’s current deal expires in June 2023 and he was valued around the £40million mark in January – although that figure is likely to reduce this summer.
Ezri Konsa and Tyrone Mings have been the first-choice pairing for Aston Villa this term – with Kortney Hause and Calum Chambers waiting in reserve.
Agbonlahor claimed Steven Gerrard could be pondering the addition of a more “physical presence” at the heart of the defence.
“I think Aston Villa can improve all over the pitch,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“Steven Gerrard will know that realistically if Villa are going to challenge that top six – they need to make these big-money changes.
“They need more competition. I like Konsa and Mings, but maybe Gerrard will be looking at it and thinking: ‘Can I get another physical presence in there?’
“De Vrij could be that option. It would certainly bring that quality depth and competition for places.”
De Vrij has made 55 appearances for the Netherlands since making his debut almost 10 years ago.
Aston Villa sit ninth in the Premier League – 14 points adrift of sixth-place Man United.
In other news, pundit claims Gerrard is set to replace £33m star after news update.