Aston Villa are expected to make a bid for Stoke City goalkeeper Jack Butland this week, according to the Birmingham Mail‘s Gregg Evans on Twitter.
The England goalkeeper spent the 2018/19 season in the Championship, which surprised many, considering his pedigree.
Butland will be keen to return to the Premier League, however, and Villa are looking increasingly like a potential next destination.
Dean Smith will be looking to improve his squad as Villa prepare for their top flight return, following their Championship playoff heroics.
Jed Steer and Orjan Nyland both played in goal for Smith’s side last season, but an upgrade is arguably required.
Butland fits the bills, and with regards to the move, Evans said:
Aston Villa are in for Jack Butland. Stoke want big money but #avfc will test their resolve. Expecting a bid this week.
Butland would be an exciting signing, considering he is still only 26 years of age.
He hasn’t kicked on as much as some would have hoped – he was predicted by many to become first choice for England – but a fresh challenge at Villa could be just what he needs.
