Aston Villa are being linked with a move for Middlesbrough’s Marcus Tavernier, as per a report by the Birmingham Mail.
The 18 year-old has burst onto the scene at Garry Monk’s Middlesbrough and has been a first-team regular in recent weeks. However, he has scouts watching him from various clubs, including their Championship rivals Aston Villa.
Steve Bruce’s Aston Villa have given youngsters a chance in the past season or so, including the likes of Keinan Davis, Callum O’Hare, James Bree and Rushain Hepburn-Murphy being given minutes for the first-team. They have some exciting young talents in their ranks and they want to add Marcus Tavernier.
Arsenal, Everton and Bournemouth are also being linked with a move for Tavernier. Middlesbrough are also hoping to tie him down on a longer contract to see off any interest.
Tavernier was born in Leeds and firstly joined the Newcastle United academy before moving to the Middlesbrough academy when he was 13. He is the younger brother of Rangers defender James Tavernier.
He made his debut in the EFL cup for Boro in August against Scunthorpe. Garry Monk was impressed with his performances in pre-season and was expected to give him a chance this season.
He scored his first goal for Boro in their 1-0 win over rivals Sunderland on 5th November. As with any young player impressing in the Championship, there will always be interest in them. Boro will be hoping they can see off interest from the likes of Aston Villa and hold onto their promising young talent.
