Chesterfield striker Evans, who was cleared of sexual assault on Friday, is a reported target for Aston Villa.
General view of Aston Villa’s Villa Park ground
Aston Villa are among several clubs interested in signing Chesterfield striker Ched Evans, the Daily Mail reports.
Evans was found not guilty of sexual assault on Friday, after a lengthy legal battle to clear his name.
Wales’ Ched Evans in action against Phil Jones of England
The Daily Mail reports, however, that despite the sudden interest in his services from the likes of Aston Villa, Evans plans to remain loyal to Chesterfield, with whom he signed a one-year contract in the summer.
The 27-year-old has since scored four goals in eight outings for the Derbyshire side and this, combined with his tally of 29 in 36 for Sheffield United during the 2011-12 campaign, is sure to have alerted other clubs.
Ched Evans celebrates scoring for Sheffield United
Aston Villa’s interest would be somewhat surprising, however, given they spent what could amount to £27 million on two new strikers, Jonathan Kodjia and Ross McCormack (Birmingham Mail), during the summer transfer window – while Villa’s attacking options also include Jordan Ayew, Rudy Gestede, Libor Kozak and Gabriel Agbonlahor.
It is possible, however, that the speculation simply emanates from comments made by new Aston Villa manager Steve Bruce while Hull City boss (BBC Sport), in which he backed Evans’ return to football upon his release from prison.
New Aston Villa manager Steve Bruce at his unveiling
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