Aston Villa have stepped up their pursuit of Aaron Wan-Bissaka after West Ham United rejected a loan offer for the right-back.
Unai Emery’s side have moved beyond exploratory talks by making an offer for the 28-year-old as they look to strengthen at right-back.
However, West Ham have knocked back Villa’s opening proposal.
The Athletic’s Jacob Tanswell reported on Tuesday that the Hammers rejected a loan offer from Villa for Wan-Bissaka.
Tanswell added that Villa’s interest has now stepped up, with the club actively seeking another right-back.
Aston Villa step up Aaron Wan-Bissaka pursuit
The development significantly moves the transfer on from where it stood earlier on Tuesday.
Read Aston Villa reported at 10am that Villa were preparing to make an offer for Wan-Bissaka, after exploratory discussions had already taken place between the clubs.
Villa have now tested West Ham’s resolve, although their preference for a loan appears to be some distance from the Hammers’ previous valuation.
West Ham have been reported to value Wan-Bissaka at around £25million following their relegation from the Premier League.
That leaves an obvious question over whether Villa are prepared to change the structure of their proposal and pursue a permanent agreement.
Emery wants additional competition for Matty Cash, while Kosta Nedeljkovic’s own future has become increasingly uncertain.
The Serbian is attracting interest from Rangers, and his departure would further increase Villa’s need for another senior right-back.
Wan-Bissaka would bring considerable Premier League experience after spells with Crystal Palace, Manchester United and West Ham.
Villa’s first attempt has failed, but Tanswell’s report that their interest has stepped up suggests the rejection has not ended the pursuit.
The next development will now be whether Villa return with an improved offer or attempt to negotiate a different structure with West Ham.
