Aston Villa are looking to spend on a new goalkeeper this summer.
Aston Villa saw Jed Steer impress in the final stages of the season, but with Lovre Kalinic struggling since his January arrival, a new goalkeeper is likely to arrive.
Steer may not quite be at the level Villa need in the Premier League, and they’ve subsequently been linked with a number of shot-stoppers in recent days.
Last week, Wales Online noted that Villa have offered £8million for Cardiff City goalkeeper Neil Etheridge following their promotion, but their bid was rejected.
Now, The Sun believe that Villa are offering £20million for Stoke City stopper Jack Butland, just £3million short of what the Championship club want for him.
This situation presents Dean Smith and co with a major dilemma, especially given his relationship with Etheridge from their days together at Walsall.
Etheridge was given a chance by Smith and impressed in the Premier League last season, offering a proven option between the sticks that Smith and goalkeeping coach Neil Cutler know well.
Butland may be a better goalkeeper, but will cost considerably more, and Smith must decide whether to go with the goalkeeper he knows so well, or push the boat out to bring in a bigger name.
That’s an intriguing decision to make, and it would be little surprise to see Butland emerge as the top target – even if Smith and Cutler are such huge fans of 29-year-old Etheridge.
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