Aston Villa are keen to sign Crystal Palace midfielder James McArthur, but face competition for his signature.
According to a report from the Daily Mail, Aston Villa have now made an enquiry for Crystal Palace midfielder James McArthur, and could still move for the 29-year-old even if they manage to sign Glenn Whelan.
The Mail reports that new Palace boss Frank De Boer may deem McArthur surplus to requirements at Selhurst Park, seemingly leaving the path clear for another club to offer him a fresh challenge.
Crystal Palace’s James McArthur in action with another Aston Villa target Stoke City’s Glenn Whelan
According to the Mail, Villa want to sign Stoke City’s Glenn Whelan during this window, but Steve Bruce would still want to add McArthur – who is also being pursued by Burnley – to his squad ahead of the new Championship season.
But the Mail adds that one dent to the Villans’ hopes of signing the former Wigan man centre around their need to move some players out before they are able to make a serious bid.
If they are able to move those players out and then are subsequently able to win the race for McArthur’s signature, then that would surely provide a major boost to their promotion hopes.
McArthur can not only provide some additional competitive edge to Villa’s midfield, but he has shown for Palace that he is also able to contribute goals and assists at the highest level – so it would hardly be a surprise if they swiftly make a concrete bid if they do manage to get the funds together.
Aston Villa manager Steve Bruce
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
