Aston Villa will beat Everton and Manchester United to the signing of Dundee United teenager Kerr Smith, with the Courier reporting that the defender is in Birmingham to close a deal.
While Finch Farm and Carrington have churned out some of the most exciting talent in British football since the turn of the century, there is something special happening at Villa’s own Bodymoor Heath training ground.
The Midland giants are hard at work behind the scenes, transforming their Tamworth-based home into one of the most prosperous academies in European football.
Esteemed talent-spotters Mark Harrison and Steve Hopcroft have been snatched from local rivals West Brom to oversee the overhaul, while Aston Villa have also been scouring the market for some of the most exciting teenage talents on the market.
Ben Chrisene arrived from Exeter City despite interest from Bayern Munich, while Sil Swinkels, Caolon McBride, Oliwier Zych and Lamare Bogarde have also put pen to paper.
England youth striker Louie Barry, meanwhile, could eventually set Villa back a staggering £3 million after a brief spell at Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy.
According to reports north of the border, Kerr Smith could be the next fresh-faced prospect to pose for photos in claret and blue.
Everton and Manchester United were interested, although the Scot has now arrived in the Midlands to complete his move to Villa Park.
Interestingly, Smith is one of three highly-rated Dundee United youngsters to catch the eye of Premier League clubs, alongside Lewis Neilson and Logan Chalmers.
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