Agbonlahor shares three-word verdict on Aston Villa signing Hughes after Athletic reveal

Gabby Agbonlahor has urged Aston Villa not to pursue their reported interest in Will Hughes.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Villa's record Premier League goalscorer insisted the Watford midfielder is not an upgrade on the likes of Conor Hourihane.

The Athletic reported on 10 June Villa are "keeping a close eye" on the 26-year-old's situation.

He has entered the final 12-months of his Watford contract and it is claimed negotiations over an extension are ongoing.

Hughes played a key role for the Hornets as they earned an immediate return to the Premier League last season.

Aston Villa are well stocked in the midfield area with John McGinn, Douglas Luiz, Marvelous Nakamba, Jacob Ramsey and Hourihane.

Football Insider revealed on 16th June Villa will throw their financial might behind the bid to lure James Ward-Prowse from Southampton.

The Saints captain is interested in a move that he sees as an upgrade in club.

Asked whether Hughes would also be a good addition, Agbonlahor told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley: “Not for me."

He added: “When you’ve got the likes of Conor Hourihane you don’t need a Will Hughes. Villa have got more than enough cover in those areas.

“I don’t see Villa going for him to be honest, not for me.”

Hughes has played 118 times for Watford, including 77 Premier League games.

He moved to the club in the summer of 2017 after graduating from Derby County's academy.

In other news, there has been a huge update on Aston Villa's bid to sign Emile Smith-Rowe from Arsenal.