Dundee United have granted Kerr Smith permission to travel to Birmingham and undergo a medical after agreeing to terms with Aston Villa for the defender’s January transfer.
That’s according to the Daily Record, who report the Terrors and Villans have struck a £2m deal for the centre-back. Steven Gerrard’s side will pay a significant upfront fee for the 17-year-old, along with a host of substantial potential add-ons.
Smith will now travel to England for a medical and hold final negotiations with Aston Villa over his contract. The switch is a dream move for the youngster, who has selected Villa Park against widespread rival Premier League interest.
Aston Villa negotiated Smith’s transfer with Dundee United Sporting Director Tony Asghar to win a contested race. Crystal Palace, Chelsea, Everton and Southampton had also shown an interest in taking the teenager south of the border.
The Villans rate Smith highly and believe he is already among the best defenders within the UK of his age. He will join the Birmingham outfit’s Under-23s upon signing, with club chiefs viewing his capture as one for the future.
Aston Villa have wanted Smith transfer from Dundee United for ages
Aston Villa consider Smith’s involvement in their U23s a short-term move as he settles with the club following a transfer from Dundee United. The Birmingham outfit have also eyed a deal for months, with The Scottish Sun citing Villa as leading the race as far back as May.
A summer switch would have cost around £500k before add-ons after Liverpool, Leicester and Southampton also watched his rise. Now, however, the Villans have offered £800k, per the Daily Mail, which is likely to be the upfront instalment.
Smith has played 12 first-team games for Dundee United to maintain Aston Villa’s interest in a transfer. Seven of his senior outings have come so far this season, starting four.
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