- Former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor believes Harry Wilson should make the switch to the Midlands as it’s a “no-brainer”
- The Fulham winger’s contract is due to expire at the end of this June
- Everton are also said to be interested
Ex-Aston Villa player Gabby Agbonlahor believes a move to Villa Park for Harry Wilson is a “no-brainer” amid the club’s reported interest in the Fulham winger.
The Welshman has decided not to extend his stay at Craven Cottage, and is expected to consider his options at the expiration of his contract at the end of June this year. Wilson has enjoyed his best season in the Premier League, scoring ten goals and registering six assists in 31 appearances.
He joined Fulham in July 2021 from Liverpool on a five-year deal worth £12 million. Despite the Cottagers’ desire to keep him at the club, the 29-year-old wants to test himself in Europe, which is something Marco Silva’s side is unable to offer.
Given the likelihood of Villa qualifying for the Champions League, they are the frontrunners, with Everton also rumoured to be interested.
Wilson is said to be keen on the move, and Agbonlahor thinks he will be a perfect fit for Unai Emery’s style.
Agbonlahor wants him at Villa
Speaking on talkSPORT, Agbonlahor suggested it “makes sense” for Wilson to play under Emery, given where the club is likely to play next season, and the chance for regular starts.
“Very good footballer. There’s talk that maybe Aston Villa, on a free transfer. 29 years of age, suits Aston Villa this summer because I’m not sure they’ll have big, big money to spend.
“Free transfer, not ridiculous wages as well. Ten goals, six assists so far this season in the Premier League, some screamers as well.
“He fits into that Aston Villa style, even if he plays off one of the wings, sometimes they come in. McGinn does, as we’ve seen Rogers do, or Buendia.
“Harvey Elliott will obviously go back to Liverpool, so Aston Villa will probably be left with Buendia, who has had some good games, but he’s not consistent.
“So, it just makes sense to play under a manager like Unai Emery. You’re going to a club that, fingers crossed, are fighting for titles; they’re going to be in the Champions League.
“If you’re Harry Wilson, it’s a no-brainer because if he tries to look at maybe a Liverpool… Chelsea, but maybe a Liverpool, maybe he doesn’t start enough games.
“But at Aston Villa, he will get more starts. I think that move makes sense for him and Aston Villa.”
With Wilson’s contract winding down and his stock at an all-time high, a move to Villa appears to be a win-win for all parties. As Agbonlahor highlights, the Welshman’s impressive output and tactical versatility make him an ideal, cost-effective addition to Emery’s squad.
For a player eager to prove himself on the European stage, Villa Park offers the perfect platform to transition from a Premier League standout to a Champions League competitor.
Should Villa secure his signature on a free transfer, it may well prove to be a shrewd piece of business for a club battling the financial rules.
