Championship play-off finalists Aston Villa were reportedly close to signing Swansea City captain Leroy Fer in January for £2m.
Leroy Fer is suddenly without a club. So what better chance for Aston Villa to finally sign a player they were close to signing on the final day of the January transfer window?
According to the Sun, the former Dutch international was on the verge of joining Dean Smith’s side for a cut price fee of £2 million.
But, with the time ticking down on deadline day, Swansea City suddenly backed out of the deal at the eleventh hour, keeping their captain and sending Tom Carroll to Villa Park instead on a short-term loan deal.
In hindsight, however, Swansea’s decision not to accept that £2 million offer now looks a strange one. Because Fer has now walked away from the Liberty Stadium for free, according to the Mail, with his contract expiring this summer.
So if Aston Villa are still keen to add some drive and experience in the centre of the park without spending a penny, this is their chance.
And it seems that plenty of fans would welcome the former QPR and Norwich play-maker with open arms.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
