Aston Villa are reportedly prioritising a deal for Newcastle United’s Isaac Hayden.
According to the Birmingham Mail, Newcastle United midfielder Isaac Hayden has become Aston Villa’s top target ahead of the transfer deadline.
Villa have brought in Lovre Kalinic and Kortney Hause so far this month, but it seems that Dean Smith wants to land another holding midfield player.
Glenn Whelan and Mile Jedinak are both ageing, whilst Conor Hourihane has been shaky in a holding role in Smith’s 4-3-3 setup.
A host of midfielders have been linked with Villa as a result, but the Birmingham Mail claim that Newcastle’s Hayden has now emerged as a top target.
It’s stated that contact has already been made with the 23-year-old, and a deal could be done before Thursday’s transfer deadline.
The report notes that Hayden wants to leave Newcastle this month, a stance he held over the summer, and he will be allowed to go as long as the Magpies sign a replacement first.
West Brom are also keen, but Villa are believed to be leading the race, even though it’s unclear whether it would be a purchase, loan or loan-to-buy for Villa.
Hayden, formerly of Arsenal, thrived under ex-Villa boss Steve Bruce at Hull City, but has made just six Premier League starts this season, and would give Villa a proven yet still promising anchor man in midfield.
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