“As things stand…“: Ashley Preece drops Aston Villa transfer claim, Lange must act now - opinion

Journalist Ashley Preece has provided an update regarding Aston Villa‘s interest in Bologna starlet, Aaron Hickey.

Speaking in a Q & A for Birmingham Mail, the Villa correspondent suggested that it has all gone “quiet” regarding a possible move for the Scotland international, as the club struggles to acquire a suitable backup to first-choice left-back, Lucas Digne.

Asked whether the Midlands side are out of the running for the 20-year-old’s signature, Preece stated: “As things stand, yes. Gone awfully quiet re him. Villa having trouble with targets knowing Digne is the main man to begin the season.”

This corroborates an earlier claim from The Athletic which suggested that the club view the youngster as ‘too expensive’ due to his reported £20m valuation, having been linked with a move for the four-cap gem prior to that.

Despite having added the aforementioned Digne on a £25m deal from Everton back in January, Steven Gerrard appears keen to acquire a suitable understudy, having seen Matt Targett join Newcastle United on a £15m permanent deal after his recent loan stint at St James’ Park.

While veteran ace Ashley Young can slot into a left-back role if required, the 37-year-old is yet to sign an extension with his existing deal nearing its expiry, while the belief is that the club are keen to recruit a promising young talent who can be developed over the coming years.

Hickey would then seemingly fit the bill perfectly, with the £16.2m-rated ace able to provide competition to the club’s first-choice Frenchman, albeit while being young enough to perhaps not demand a regular starting berth right away.

The £16k-per-week prospect – who is comfortable on either flank – has become one to watch in recent years after making the bold