Aston Villa told 'big bid' needed to land McNeil from Burnley after update
Aston Villa will have to table a "big bid" to persuade Burnley into parting ways with Dwight McNeil.
That is the view of former Clarets and England goalkeeper Paul Robinson, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about Villa's interest in the 21-year-old.
This site revealed on 6th July that the Midlands club will turn their attentions to signing McNeil if they come up short in their pursuit of Arsenal's Emile Smith Rowe.
Villa have already had bids of £25million and £30million rejected by the Gunners for Smith Rowe but it is understood they will return with an offer of over £32million soon.
Robinson revealed McNeil, who has three years remaining on his contract at Turf Moor, is thought of highly by the staff at Burnley.
"McNeil is a top player," he told Football Insider's Dylan Childs.
"I have watched him a lot at Burnley and I know that he is rated very highly by everyone at the club.
"Villa would do well to get him out of Burnley because I know how much they rate him.
"It is very interesting with Villa. They are testing Arsenal for one of their top youngsters. Is this a sign that they are going to lose Grealish. If they are just building on what they have got it is very impressive.
"McNeil is a very different player to Smith Rowe because he will hug the line. His delivery is excellent and as a young player he has bundles of potential. I still think his best is to come.
"He would be a great signing for Villa but I think it would take a big bid to test Burnley's resolve."