Report: Middlesbrough and Ipswich want Aston Villa’s Alan Hutton

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Aston Villa defender Alan Hutton is heading for the exit, and a couple of their Championship rivals are keen on a move.

According to a report from The Sunday Mirror (01/04; page 74), Middlesbrough and Ipswich Town are both plotting moves for Alan Hutton when his contract with Aston Villa expires at the end of the campaign.

Hutton joined Villa for £3 million back in 2011, according to the Birmingham Mail, but his days with the Villans appear to now be numbered, with his contract running into its final months.

The Scotsman has made 27 Championship appearances for Steve Bruce’s side this term and has arguably shown some of his best form for the club. Nevertheless, it appears that he will soon be on his way.

The Sunday Mirror (04/03; page 74) reports that he will be allowed to leave on a free at the end of the campaign, and both Boro and the Tractor Boys are considering bids for the 33-year-old.

Villa making the right move?

Villa could certainly be forgiven for wanting to replace Hutton in the summer, but perhaps there may be some supporters who would look at his form this season and feel that it may not be the right decision to let him go at the end of the campaign.

The veteran has been impressive throughout the season and keeping him in the ranks for next year may have been a smart move, even if he is simply a backup for others.

There is still time for Villa to change their minds, of course, so perhaps there may be a further twist before he is definitely available for Middlesbrough or Ipswich to swoop.