Aston Villa will reportedly face interest from Everton and Crystal Palace for midfielder Marvelous Nakamba this summer as a decision on his future will be needed.
Villa are expected to be in the market for a new midfielder ourselves to bolster that area of the squad as we look to add strength in depth to compete at the highest level.
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In turn, it seemingly makes little sense to weaken ourselves further in that department by allowing Nakamba to move on, while there are also perhaps doubts over Conor Hourihane’s future at Villa following his loan spell away from the club last season.
According to the Daily Mail, both Everton and Palace are considering a move for Nakamba, and so should they make a formal bid, it will force Villa into an important decision over his future at the club.
While the 27-year-old has struggled to cement his place in the Villa starting XI throughout his time at the club, he has been a key figure for Dean Smith with his defensive qualities in that area to offer protection to the backline against particular opposition.
That was seen in games against the likes of Tottenham and Chelsea late on last season, and he will continue to play a role should he remain at Villa.
However, if a bid is received, a decision will be needed on whether or not to cash in and add those funds to our pot to find a more permanent solution or if Nakamba is considered too important to the squad to green light an exit. With Villa looking to break into the top six in the Premier League and compete in the domestic cup competitions, Smith will need options at his disposal.
