The Express and Star claims that Aston Villa have ‘enlisted’ the assistance of super-agent Jorge Mendes as they look to improve their squad before the transfer deadline. Mendes played a big part in attracting big names to Wolverhampton Wanderers last season, who won the Sky Bet Championship title.
Whilst Mendes is very much playing a part behind the scenes at Villa Park in this regard, manager Steve Bruce will ultimately have the final say on any incomings. Aston Villa recently secured ‘significant investment’, which removed the possibility of a administration and a points deduction. They are also not under immediate pressure to cash in stars such as James Chester or Jack Grealish.
Andre Moreira, the Atletico Madrid goalkeeper, is a client of Mendes’, and is set to be the first recruit on the board of that persuasion. Sam Johnstone has since moved to West Bromwich Albion, meaning Jed Steer was set to be the first choice keeper going into the new campaign.
Ben Woodburn of Liverpool is the latest name mentioned as potentially moving to the club. Bruce is wanting to rekindle their relationship with Rob Snodgrass, who had a productive spell on loan at Villa last season. It could be that West Ham United entertain offers.
Whilst Mendes is having a role to play, it looks as though loan deals are the name of the game for the club at this moment in time. Therefore, Villa supporters should not expect the wealthy recruits that Wolves made last season, when acquiring the likes of Ruben Neves.
