Aston Villa, West Bromwich Albion and Birmingham City are amongst the clubs that are chasing Oxford United winger Marvin Johnson, according to reports.
Marvin Johnson, during his time with Motherwell
A report in the Birmingham Mail has suggested that Aston Villa, West Brom and Birmingham City are amongst a considerably long list of clubs that are keeping a keen eye on Oxford United winger Marvin Johnson.
Johnson has been one of Oxford’s most impressive players this term, scoring twice and contributing five assists in League One to help keep Michael Appleton’s men in contention for the play-off places with 12 games to go, less than a year after they were promoted from the fourth tier.
That form has not gone unnoticed, with the Mail reporting that Villa have been joined by their Midlands rivals in watching the former Motherwell man at various times over the past few months.
The Mail adds that Villa have had the 26-year-old on their radar for a long time, so perhaps deem that this summer may be the ideal time to confirm their interest with a bid.
Aston Villa manager Steve Bruce
However, they will have to see off competition from West Brom and Birmingham. The latter have certainly also had Johnson in their thoughts for a long time, having offered the wide-man a scholarship when he was a youngster (via Mail).
But, of course, West Brom may have the upper hand when it comes to negotiations – even with the Mail reporting that Stoke, Derby and Reading are also interested – if Johnson bases his decision on who is the most impressive team in the running.
West Brom manager Tony Pulis
Tony Pulis’ side are doing excellently in the Premier League this term, and neither Birmingham or Villa appear to have any chance of securing promotion this year.
However, if Johnson decides that jumping two divisions may be too great a task currently and may harm his chances of enjoying regular football, then he may look at the prospect of joining one of the Baggies’ Midlands rivals much more favourably.
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