Aston Villa: £80k-a-week star could favour move to Villa Park

Aston Villa could win the race for Eric Bailly as the Manchester United defender may see a switch to Villa Park as a ‘better move’ than to any of his other suitors, according to talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook.

The Midlands outfit registered their first win of the season thanks to overcoming Everton at the weekend, but head coach Steven Gerrard could still welcome reinforcements into his squad before the September 1 deadline.

Villa’s victory over Everton came at a cost as Diego Carlos, who only joined in a £26million switch from Spanish giants Sevilla two months ago, ruptured his Achilles’ tendon.

The Brazilian’s long-term injury is expected to lead to Gerrard recruiting another centre-half ahead of the transfer window slamming shut.

Villa could reportedly look to land Manchester United ace Bailly due to him being a relatively cheap option and offering plenty of Premier League experience.

However, the 44-cap Ivory Coast international is also attracting attention from elsewhere, so Gerrard will have to move quickly if he wants to get a deal over the line.

It is understood that Manchester United have fielded inquiries from several teams – with West Ham United, Marseille and Monaco the latest to make contact – and talks are progressing.

Crook believes a move to Villa Park may be preferable to a switch to West Ham, Marseille or Monaco for Bailly.

However, the talkSPORT reporter has doubts as to whether Gerrard will strengthen his interest due to the 28-year-old’s injury record.

Crook told GIVEMESPORT: “You’d probably think if you were Eric Bailly that Aston Villa would be a better move.

“I just wonder if Gerrard will be willing to take that big a risk on a player who’s had injury problems himself.

“But, if you’re looking