Tyler Dibling has emerged as a top target for Aston Villa.Tyler Dibling has emerged as a top target for Aston Villa.
Tyler Dibling has emerged as a top target for Aston Villa. | Getty Images
Aston Villa have set their sights on a former Chelsea academy prospect
Aston Villa are believed to be plotting a blockbuster move for Southampton wonderkid Tyler Dibling in the January transfer window.
The former Chelsea academy prospect has been one of the few bright sparks in a difficult start to the season for Russell Martin’s side which has seen the Saints pick up just one win from their opening 14 league matches.
Dibling made just one appearance for Southampton en route to promotion last season, but has now stepped up to become one of the team’s most important players and arguably their biggest hope if they are to beat the drop.
The 18-year-old, who recently made his England Under-21 debut, has registered one goal in 13 appearances from midfield this season, but has proven he is capable of troubling some of the best defenders in world football - including Liverpool where he won a penalty after going on a mazy run from inside his own half.
Sun Sport claims Unai Emery’s recruitment team have been keeping close tabs on Dibling’s progress throughout the season as they ponder a potential January bid.
The report adds that Manchester United along with two unnamed clubs from Serie A are also considering making an offer for the teenage prodigy in January.
Dibling is under contract at St Mary’s Stadium until the summer of 2026 and remains a key part of Southampton’s plans as they aim to beat the drop.
Former Aston Villa starlet tipped for shock switch to Celtic
Scottish Premiership leaders Celtic are leading the charge to sign former Aston Villa academy graduate Carney Chukwuemeka on a six-month loan deal this January, according to reports from Football Insider.
The 21-year-old is believed to be hugely frustrated at his lack of first team opportunities at Chelsea this season and is reportedly searching for a new opportunity to reinvigorate his career.
Chukuemeka, who made 16 appearances across all competitions in his final year at Villa Park, has made just two substitute appearances for Chelsea in the Europa Conference League and League Cup, and is not believed to be a part of Enzo Maresca’s long-term vision at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues are keen to offload Chukuemeka on a permanent basis but are believed to be open to the idea of considering loan offers in January.
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