Scotland boss Steve Clarke feels reported Aston Villa transfer target Aaron Hickey is one of Europe’s ‘standout’ young stars given his form with Bologna, via quotes by BBC Sport.
The 19-year-old has lit up Serie A since leaving Premiership outfit Hearts for £1.5m in 2020 to attract several suitors. So far this season, the left-back – who can also play on the right and in midfield – has offered four goals and an assist over his 26 appearances, starting 25.
Now, Hickey’s efforts in Italy could return his maiden Scotland cap after he made Clarke’s latest Tartan Army squad. He has never represented his country above the Under-17 level, despite previous call-ups to U19 and U21 sides. He also last featured at U17 level in 2019.
Clarke has chosen to name Hickey in Scotland’s squad for next Thursday’s friendly against Poland to run the rule in person over the defender’s development. The Tartan Army were to play Ukraine in a World Cup play-off semi-final on March 24, but it has been postponed.
Scotland boss Clarke hails Aston Villa target Hickey among ‘standout’ Euro gems
Aston Villa could also use Clarke awarding Hickey his senior Scotland debut as a chance to scout the Bologna defender. Il Resto Del Carlino reported the Villans bid €10m (£8.5m) in January. But I Rossoblu said no in the hope he fetches €12-15m (£10-12.5m) this summer.
Fabrizio Romano has since claimed for CBS that other Premier League clubs will pursue a deal in the off-season, too. Hickey will still have two years left on his contract come June.
Rival offers will help to strengthen Bologna’s resolve amid any revived transfer interest from Aston Villa. But Clarke is certain the Glasgow-born ace is among Europe’s best youngsters.
“He has got hefty competition in front of him,” Clarke explained. “But it’s a chance for me to have a look at Aaron up close.
“If you look at the course of the season and look at how Aaron has played for Bologna, he is one of the standout young players in European football at the moment.”
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