Aston Villa signing ‘fantastic’ Wolves star Max Kilman to cause local controversy
Aston Villa and Unai Emery’s transfer interest in “fantastic” Wolves defender Max Kilman may still have “legs” despite the rivalry between the clubs, according to Alan Hutton.
Reports have emerged suggesting that Unai Emery’s side have joined Manchester United and Newcastle United in the race to secure the Wolves captain’s signature this summer as he continues to be linked with a move away from Molineux [HITC, 6 April].
The Villans have impressed defensively this season but are set to lose Clement Lenglet in the summer when he returns to Barcelona, while Tyrone Mings continues his recovery from a knee injury which has kept him out for the season.
While Hutton admits Villa are unlikely to be put off by the rivalry, he does believe Gary O’Neil will be reluctant to sell the 26-year-old and their proximity to Villa Park could prove to be a “stumbling block” in negotiations.
“It’s always a factor isn’t it,” Hutton told Villa News.
“Selling to rivals in the Birmingham area and around the area always gives an added bit to everything that goes on, but again he is a fantastic footballer and he has done ever so well.
“Does Gary O’Neil want to lose a player like that? I wouldn’t have thought so, especially not to a rival. I don’t think it would sit well with the fans.
“Has it got legs? Possibly, but I think there are a lot of stumbling blocks that are in the way.”
Aston Villa rivalry with Wolves could end hopes of securing summer transfer for Max Kilman
Kilman has been a stalwart in the Wolves backline for the last few seasons and his displays under O’Neil have been incredibly impressive so it isn’t a surprise to hear that the likes of Villa and Manchester United are keeping tabs.
While the likes of Pau Torres, Diego Carlos and Ezri Konsa have impressed under Emery this term, all three players have been hit with injury issues at times this season and it remains to be seen if they can all remain fit and available throughout a full season.
If Lenglet’s switch isn’t made permanent, a new centre-back has to be high-up on Villa’s shopping list and Kilman will be one of the names that stands out. Hopefully, the Villans can dodge the stumbling blocks and get a deal over the line.
Morgan Rogers’ ties with West Brom didn’t put an end to his January move and those in charge at Villa Park will be hoping the same applies to Kilman at Wolves.
In other Aston Villa News, Emery may risk “annoying” some Villa stars with a new selection decision against Lille
For more Aston Villa news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.