Aston Villa are reportedly still keen on Chester defender Sam Hughes – despite interest from Crystal Palace and Middlesbrough.
General view inside Villa Park
According to the Chester Chronicle, Aston Villa are still in the race to sign Chester defender Sam Hughes – despite mounting Premier League interest.
Hughes, 19, has risen up through the ranks with Chester, and has even been serving as their captain in recent weeks having impressed so much with the National League side.
On Saturday afternoon, the defender – who can play at centre back or right back – scored Chester’s winning goal in their 1-0 victory over Torquay United, which will only increase speculation surrounding his future.
Hughes is out of contract at the end of the season, and with the likes of Chris Smalling, Michail Antonio, Jamie Vardy and Charlie Austin all impressing in the Premier League, clubs are keen to land the latest non-league star.
Hughes fits the bill, and The Chester Chronicle report that Premier League sides Crystal Palace, Swansea City, Burnley and Middlesbrough are all keen on the teenager – but Aston Villa remain in the race to sign him.
It’s claimed that Villa were interested in signing Hughes in January but didn’t make their move, yet Steve Bruce’s men remain keen, and could solidify their interest with a move at the end of the season, as the prepare to battle Premier League and Championship sides.
Aston Villa manager Steve Bruce
Whilst Hughes has potential and could be a bargain addition for Villa, it would be a surprise to see Bruce land another young defender having signed Jacob Bedeau from Bury back in January.
Villa would hope that first-team football can help wing the race for Hughes’ signature in their favour, but the lure of Premier League football or a non-league player could be too good to turn down.
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