Christian Purslow decision revealed as James Wilson visits Aston Villa training ground ahead of potential transfer

We’re delighted to welcome former Aston Villa full-back Alan Hutton as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Villa Park…

Alan Hutton has revealed how Christian Purslow has always planned to bring youth through at Aston Villa with Hearts sensation James Wilson now linked with a move to B6.

Football Insider reported on 17 April that Villa are "working on hijacking Leeds United’s deal for" the Scotland Under-16s captain amid doubts surrounding his future at Scottish Premiership side Hearts.

It is understood that the Edinburgh club have offered the 16-year-old striker a new three-year deal but Villa are now making a move to beat Leeds to signing him.

Football Insider added that Wilson has already visited Bodymoor Heath ahead of a potential transfer in the summer.

Ex-Scotland international Hutton is happy to see a continued influx of young Scottish players at Villa Park, especially as it means that Purslow is sticking to a promise he made to the senior squad during Hutton's days in the West Midlands.

"It shows that Aston Villa are broadening their horizons and looking everywhere," Hutton told Villa News.

"They've done it before to bring in some young talent who have a future.

"Christian Purslow actually spoke to the squad about it when I was there, saying about the future he sees and about bringing in young talent.

"It's something I'm not surprised they're doing. You have to have a pathway through to the first team and if you don't, what's the point?

"You have to see these players like Jacob Ramsey coming through and making it to the first team.

"If not, why are you doing it?

"That's something that Aston Villa are trying to do moving forward."

Wilson is yet to play a senior game for Hearts, who'll be due £100,000 in compensation fees if he leaves to join a Premier League club in the summer.

On 17 April, the Edinburgh Evening News reported that the youngster has been granted permission to leave Tynecastle.

In other Aston Villa news, this "outstanding" outfielder is expected to quit the club for good in the summer transfer window.