The Oostende centre-back has been linked with a surprise move to Aston Villa, but would he solve Steve Bruce’s defensive dilemma?
Another day another rumour. However, Aston Villa’s latest supposed transfer target is no midfielder. Instead, VoetbalNieuws claim Steve Bruce’s side have turned their attentions to Belgian under-21 international Bruno Godeau; a 6ft 3ins centre-back.
However, while Villa’s combustible midfield is clearly in need of reinforcement, a lack of defensive depth is arguably of equal concern.
James Chester and Nathan Baker may have formed quite a promising partnership but, beyond them, Tommy Elphick is yet to repeat his Bournemouth best at Villa Park while Micah Richards (below) is both out-of-favour and, rather crucially, injured.
Therefore, a young alternative with potential to develop could be the ideal addition to Bruce’s squad on both a short and long-term basis. At just 24, Oostende’s Godeau is clearly ready for first-team football but has plenty of years left in the tank.
Furthermore, his seven caps for the Belgian under-21s shows just how highly he is rated in his homeland although, having not played a minute of football in a top European league, Villa fans will understandably be concerned that he could follow a recent trend set by Jolean Lescott, Jores Okore (below) and co.
However, his arrival would provide Bruce with something he is in desperate need of at Villa: defensive options.
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