Aston Villa reportedly join race for Aaron Hickey; Bologna lead chase

Add as preferred source on Google

Aston Villa have joined the race to sign Hearts left-back Aaron Hickey, according to a report from the Daily Record, but Dean Smith is not currently in pole position to sign the starlet.

Hickey has established himself as one of the most exciting prospects coming through in Scotland since making his debut as a 16-year-old.

It appears that he could be on the move this summer with Hearts set for a campaign in the second tier.

The Daily Record reports that a number of clubs want the defender. And the Villans are one of those monitoring the teenager as they prepare for their second season back in the Premier League.

However, the Record notes that Serie A side Bologna are leading the charge for Hickey’s signature.

They are reportedly ready to offer the £1.5 million-rated youngster a role in their first-team squad, and that is set to be a key factor with Hickey not interested in moving to a club where he will not play.

TBR View: Potential opportunity for Hickey should he join Villa

Villa do have options at left-back. Matt Targett was signed ahead of their first campaign back in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Neil Taylor has been at the club since 2017.

It may well be a position that Villa fans would like to see strengthened this summer. But some may have their concerns should Hickey be added to those ranks.

In fairness, the early signs suggest that paying £1.5 million for the 18-year-old could prove to be inspired in the future.

But if Smith would rather sign a more experienced option in that area of the pitch, perhaps he may struggle to beat Bologna to his signature.