Aston Villa could sign £20m John McGinn replacement who Morgan Rogers thinks is ‘so good’
Aston Villa’s PSR troubles have led to speculation over several players’ futures, with even captain John McGinn being targeted by other clubs.
In July, Everton were linked with McGinn, and there were reports that Aston Villa would accept a £30million bid for the Scottish midfielder.
Newcastle United have also shown an interest in McGinn, who has become an integral part of Unai Emery’s success story at Villa Park.
The thought of their captain leaving for a Premier League rival will make many fans feel sick to the stomach, but if they do sanction his exit, there is someone in the Championship who could be the perfect replacement.
Aston Villa should sign Hayden Hackney if John McGinn leaves
McGinn possesses infectious energy, setting the tone as captain with his incredible pressing and unwavering desire to regain possession.
That is why Emery will not be desperate to sell the 30-year-old, whose contract at Villa Park expires in June 2027.
That being said, Villa should plot a move for Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney if McGinn does move on from the club this summer.
Hackney is exceptional at winning the ball back for his team, utilising his remarkable stamina, and he’s also excellent at driving forward.
| Hayden Hackney’s 2024/25 stats |
| 43 appearances |
| 5 goals |
| 3 assists |
| 9 big chances created |
| 1.5 key passes per game |
| 2.2 tackles per game |
| 6.5 balls recovered per game |
| 5.96 expected assists |
| 85% accurate passes |
The 23-year-old was integral to Michael Carrick’s system last term, and now, there’s a huge possibility he departs the Riverside.
Ipswich Town saw a £20m bid accepted for the Englishman, but Hackney turned down a move, while there are talks of Everton submitting an offer.
Aston Villa have the status and ambition to beat both clubs to his signature, something they should explore if an opportunity arises.
Morgan Rogers is a big fan of Hackney
During his time at Boro, Morgan Rogers played with Hackney on 22 occasions and on the international stage for England’s under-21 side.
Rogers earned his move to Aston Villa at the start of 2024 after impressing under Carrick, but the 23-year-old has previously shown adulation for his former teammate.
After scoring the winner against West Brom last October, Rogers reacted to Hackney’s Instagram post, labelling the midfielder as ‘so so good’.
So, while McGinn leaving would be a bitter pill to swallow, capturing Hackney as his replacement would make Rogers very happy.
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