Report: Aston Villa defender Bjorn Engels wanted on loan by Anderlecht

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Aston Villa defender Bjorn Engels has reportedly emerged as a target for Belgian side Anderlecht.

Walfoot have claimed the central defender is wanted on a loan basis by the club, who finished a very disappointing eighth last season.

Engels only signed for Villa last summer, but struggled in his first Premier League campaign.

The £7.3 million acquisition from Reims couldn’t establish himself as a regular starter, with injury limiting him to just 17 top-flight appearances.

He is now behind Tyrone Mings, Ezri Konsa and Kortney Hause in the pecking order.

According to Walfoot Villa have no interest in allowing Engels to leave on loan and would rather sell.

TBR’s View – Engels should get another chance

Villa might be making a hasty decision entertaining interest in Engels.

The 26-year-old – who earns £55,000-a-week at Villa Park (Spotrac) – made a really bright start shortly after joining the club, and there is clearly a player in there.

Perhaps Smith should stick with him a little longer and then reassess the situation in January.

Villa fans on social media have not forgotten the early impression he made, and it would seem a shame for the club to try and cash in after just one season when he did show promising signs.