Gerrard given green light for “exciting” Villa signing, he's "getting rave reviews" - opinion

Aston Villa have been handed the chance to sign promising teenager Sonny Perkins following his recent departure from West Ham United.

As per the Irons’ official website, the 18-year-old has left the east London outfit following the expiry of his contract, having opted against signing an extension with David Moyes’ side.

His now-former club were seemingly angered by the manner of his exit, however, writing in their statement that they were ‘disappointed’ with the forward’s representatives and are convinced that the youngster has been ‘approached’ by another club.

This follows a report from journalist Fabrizio Romano last month which revealed that both Villa and fellow Premier League side Leeds United have “opened talks” to sign the Englishman this summer.

The West Ham academy product is now free to join a new club, albeit with the east Londoners set to be entitled to compensation as a result.

There is clearly more than a hint of bitterness regarding the player’s departure from the London Stadium, although much of that frustration perhaps stems from GSB losing out on a highly-rated talent, having endured a very similar scenario with Jeremy Ngakia two years ago.

Their loss could well be Villa’s gain, however, with manager Steven Gerrard set to have an “exciting” prospect on his hands (in the words of Goal’s Tom Maston) who can potentially become a first-team regular in the coming years.

The Liverpool legend, and his predecessor Dean Smith, have already handed chances to the likes of Jacob Ramsey, Carney Chukwuemeka and Tim Iroegbunam in recent times, evidence of a clear pathway for academy graduates to the senior squad at Villa Park.

The indication is that Perkins could well be another youngster to make an impact on Villa’s