Gabby Agbonlahor believes Ashley Young’s experience and versatility would make him ‘a great signing’ for Aston Villa as the Inter Milan ace closes in on a Premier League return, while speaking to talkSPORT (17 June, 9:00am).
Subtle, Gabby, subtle.
As reports emerged on Tuesday suggesting that Agbonlahor’s one-time teammate could be set for a shock return to Bodymoor Heath, the former Villa captain certainly chose an interesting time to post that Instagram photo.
How much a man dubbed ‘Agent Gabby’ knows about the deal is anyone’s guess.
But while he was reluctant to give too much away when asked about the prospect of Young making an emotional Holte End homecoming, he did insist that, even at 35, the England international is capable of making a big impact back at the club where he became a bona fide Premier League star.
“I don’t know what you’re talking about!” Agbonlahor protested, convincing absolutely nobody.
“He’d be a good signing if it happens. He could add cover and he’s just won the title in Italy. He’ll be a great signing if it happens.”
Young has also been linked with a return to Watford and a bargain move to Burnley.
Aston Villa are reported to be in pole position, however, with The Athletic reporting that Dean Smith sees the 2021 Serie A champion as a player capable of adding depth and competition in a number of different positions.
The Young who swapped Aston Villa for Manchester United a decade ago – at the peak of his play-making powers – is a very different player these days.
He was a goal-scoring winger back in 2011.
But Young would return to his old stomping ground a more defensively-minded player, completing his transformation from skillful wide man to diligent full-back under Antonio Conte at the San Siro.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
