It’s been the most awful of seasons for Aston Villa, but finally the supporters have had something to cheer about in the last couple of days. Dr Tony Xia has agreed to buy the Claret and Blues for around £75m and the deal is now waiting for Football League approval.
But with potential new owners comes the potential for new summer signings and Dr Xia, who is a massive football fan, has promised Villa a serious transfer kitty, which if you believe the Chinese investor, could transform the fallen giants.
It’s good news for Villa fans and after the season they’ve just had they could do with some good news. So with money on the very close horizon, here are FIVE names Villa could do with bringing in ahead of the Championship season…
Joey Barton
A slightly controversial one, but Joey Barton could be an excellent signing by any potential new manager. He’s battled and scrapped in the middle of the park with Burnley this season and his quality ensured the Clarets were automatically promoted back to the Premier League. He’s been linked with a move to Rangers though, so Villa might have to get in there quick if Barton is in fact on the agenda.
Roberto Di Matteo
Di Matteo is the man that has been linked with the vacant managerial hot-seat at Villa Park, and what a signing that could turn out to be. The Italian has had good spells at both West Brom and Chelsea, and was most recently at FC Schalke in Germany. The Italian has a gentle giant approach about him, and this may be what Villa need after years of turmoil.
David Faupal
David Faupala is one of Manchester City’s real gems. He’s come through the academy and was given his first taste of first team action when City travelled to Chelsea in their FA Cup fifth round replay. They lost the game 5-1, but he was one of a handful of young stars that caught the eye, and some first-team action at one of the biggest clubs in the Championship would be excellent for his development.
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Jordon Ibe
Jordon Ibe is widely expected to leave Liverpool at the end of the season due to a lack of first team opportunities, but his destination is yet to be decided. He’d be a real coup for Villa too – he’s quick, has excellent vision and is willing to chase down loose balls. Whether he’d drop down a level to the Championship is yet to be seen, but he’s one Villa should keep an eye on.
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Abel Hernandez
It’s taken him a while, but Hull City striker Abel Hernandez is finally showing the form he was renowned for at Palermo. 22 goals in 44 appearances for the Tigers this season have helped them on their way to a play-off final at Wembley, and should Steve Bruce’s side fail to get back to the Premier League, Villa should make a move. He’s ridiculously quick and knows where the goal is – they’ve missed that this season.
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