Aston Villa are reportedly keen on West Ham United’s Jordan Hugill.
Aston Villa have yet to bring any new signings this summer, but Steve Bruce may now make moves for new faces after a much-needed cash injection.
Villa’s financial situation turned dire after the 1-0 Championship play-off final defeat to Fulham in May, and Bruce not only thought he’d have to sell key players, but also wasn’t able to bring in new signings.
With the transfer deadline approaching, Villa are now looking for additions thanks to the investment of Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens, allaying fears of a financial meltdown ahead of the new season.
Now, The Sun report that Villa boss Bruce wants to bring in a new striker, with West Ham United’s Jordan Hugill thought to be a top target for Villa before the transfer deadline next month.
Hugill, 26, joined the Hammers from Preston North End in January, but has played just 22 minutes of Premier League action and has been left out of most pre-season friendlies by Manue Pellegrini, with the burly forward seemingly having no future in East London already.
Hugill did though hit 20 goals in his last 71 Championship outings for Preston, and Bruce may feel that he can lead the line for Villa with his power and deceptive pace, as well as his well-known work rate.
It’s no great surprise that Villa are keen; Hugill hit two goals against Villa in January 2017 to earn Preston a 2-2 draw, and after the game, Bruce told the Daily Mail that he felt Hugill was ‘not easy on the eye but is very effective’.
Bruce’s prior praise of Hugill lends itself to Villa saving him from his West Ham hell, and whilst it may only be a loan deal, Hugill can be the physical target man Villa need, though it remains to be seen what kind of wage contribution they can offer.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
