Jonty Banks

Wed 31 May 2023 10:09, UK

Aston Villa Women might be resigned to losing goalkeeper Hannah Hampton in the upcoming transfer window after her standout campaign under Carla Ward.

After a tough start to the 2022/23 season, which saw the shot-stopper dropped from the England squad and sidelined with an injury, Hampton has been a player possessed since the turn of the year.

Her form, alongside the goals of Rachel Daly and the January acquisitions of Jordan Nobbs and Lucy Staniforth, helped the Villans finish 5th in the WSL with an impressive 37 points.

However, with the 22-year-old’s contract in the West Midlands expiring this summer, a number of WSL giants are circling a transfer.

Taking to Twitter on 30 May, BBC journalist Emma Sanders wrote: “Understand Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City are interested in Aston Villa goalkeeper Hannah Hampton (her contract expires this summer).

“Villa are trying to sign a goalkeeper and they have a list of targets.”

The fact that Villa are already eyeing up goalkeeping targets in the transfer market all but confirms that they are resigned to losing the England international this summer.

Although it comes as no surprise that these three WSL sides are lurking for a transfer, it will be a major blow in Ward’s attempts to establish her side in the top four of the league next season.

The club must ensure they don’t become a selling club, much like the men’s first team became under Martin O’Neill over a decade ago, as it will get harder and harder to adequately replace the current crop of stars.

Hopefully, the former Birmingham City player’s imminent-looking departure won’t cause a roadblock in the quest for top-four football at Villa Park, and an adequate replacement can be sourced in the transfer market.

Anna Leat is waiting in the wings for her opportunity to shine, but Aston Villa could do with further depth in between the sticks.

In other Aston Villa news, this fan favourite is now ready to light up the European stage.