Report: Aston Villa goalkeeper Lovre Kalinic closes in on Toulouse loan

Add as preferred source on Google

Aston Villa goalkeeper Lovre Kalinic appears to be closing in on a loan move this month, with The Sun on Sunday (19/1; page 63) reporting that he is in talks with Toulouse.

Kalinic has endured a nightmare spell with the Villans. The 29-year-old joined the club last January, but struggled to make a positive impression.

By the end of the season, Jed Steer had taken the number one spot and helped Dean Smith’s men to promotion. Tom Heaton was then through the door as the summer window closed. And of course, Pepe Reina has now signed on loan.

The Sun on Sunday (19/1; page 63) reports that the £7 million signing is now close to sealing a move away.

The report notes that former club Gent wanted to re-sign the Croatia international. But Villa have reportedly agreed terms with Toulouse, and he has headed to France to tie up the move.

TBR View – Successful loan best for all parties

Given how Kalinic’s spell has played out so far, it is difficult to imagine Villa recouping the £7 million they reportedly paid for the stopper.

Loaning him out may not do them many favours in the short-term. But it is arguably the best move for all parties.

It gives Kalinic the chance to get some confidence back. He can put himself in the shop window.

And if he impresses, Villa will surely be able to ask for significantly more than they would have done this month.