The Crystal Palace midfielder would be a fantastic addition to the Aston Villa squad this summer.
Villans boss Steve Bruce has already been active in the transfer market this summer, and judging by the signing of John Terry, and some of the names he has been linked with, he seems to be going down the experienced route.
The latest target on his list is Eagles midfielder James McArthur, according to the Daily Mail. They claim that Villa have enquired about the 29-year-old and want to sign him even if they bring Glenn Whelan to the club this summer.
Crystal Palace’s James McArthur celebrates
The former Wigan Athletic man would be an excellent addition to Bruce’s engine room at Villa Park, what with his tenacious tackling and tireless work ethic. He has plenty of experience of playing in England’s second tier, and seems to be a ready-made signing for the west Midlands outfit.
The Scotland international is wonderfully versatile, and can play all across midfield, or even in more advanced positions if need be, but is arguably most effective when deployed in the deep-lying midfield role.
He occupied that role for the most part last season, displaying his leadership skills along with providing his back-four with an added level of protection.
McArthur chipped in with some impressive attacking numbers for his side too, scoring six goals and registering three assists in 31 outings for the the south London outfit.
The 29-year-old has just one year remaining on his current deal at Selhurst Park, so he shouldn’t prove to be too costly for Villa, with Palace unlikely to risk losing him for free next year.
And if Bruce manages to bring him to Villa Park, it could turn out to be a signing of real significance for the club in their hopes gaining promotion to the Premier League.
Crystal Palace’s James McArthur in action
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