Italian outlet Il Resto Del Carlino claim that Aston Villa have seen an £8.5million bid rejected for Bologna left-footer Aaron Hickey. The Scottish star has been superb for the Serie A side during the 2020-21 campaign.
Hickey, 19, joined Bologna in the summer of 2020 from Hearts but only played 12 times in his first season. However, this season, he has been first choice – playing as a left wing-back for Bologna this season.
The Scottish star has missed just one Serie A game all season – scoring four goals in his 21 games. Villa have made their move, despite signing Lucas Digne from Everton. It is claimed that a fee of £8.5million has been tabled.
However, Bologna have rejected a move – and want between £11million and £12.5million. 90Min report that Matt Targett is set to travel north to join Newcastle on loan – though it is unclear if a permanent clause is included.
Villa bid for Hickey: Bologna star makes sense as Targett replacement
Targett has lost his place in the side but at 26, he is unlikely to want to sit on the bench. A move to Newcastle would be a good one for the ex-Southampton ace, even if the Toon remain embroiled in a relegation scrap.
If Targett does go, Villa will need cover at left-back but a player that is happy to act as cover for Digne. A younger player, then, who is happy to sit on the bench makes sense. Hickey would be an ideal addition.
But there initial offer has been rejected and whether Villa go back in for Hickey remains to be seen. Another £2.5million and Bologna could end up accepting a deadline-day move for their Scottish left-footer.
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