Aston Villa are reportedly continuing negotiations regarding a new deal for versatile veteran Ashley Young, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
What’s the word?
The respected insider has revealed that talks are “ongoing” with regards to a contract extension for the 37-year-old, with the former Manchester United man’s current deal set to expire at the end of the month.
Writing on Twitter about the Englishman’s situation, Romano revealed that all parties appear keen to get the agreement over the line: “Talks in progress between Aston Villa and Ashley Young with very good chances to continue together next season. Discussions ongoing but feeling is mutual.”
The 39-cap international returned to Villa Park on a one-year deal last year a decade on from leaving the club, although manager Steven Gerrard has already hinted that he would like his former Three Lions colleague to stay beyond this summer.
Gerrard delighted
In what is already proving to be a busy summer for the Midlands outfit, this latest update may somewhat go under the radar amid all the talk of incomings, although Gerrard will be acutely aware of just how important the one-time Watford man is to the current squad.
With a senior career that has spanned almost 20 years – both in England and in Italy – the £900k-rated gem offers his compatriot a wealth of knowledge and experience, having won league titles with both United and more recently at Serie A side Inter Milan, while also featuring for his country at Euro 2012 and the 2018 World Cup.
Dubbed a “manager’s dream” by the Villa boss, Young has proven a hugely effective performer in recent years, with his incredible versatility making him a vital asset to any dressing room, as he is able to feature at full-back, wing-back and even in a more attacking wide midfield role.
Although unlikely to be a regular starter next term – having made just ten Premier League starts in the 2021/22 campaign – the £88k-per-week ace still overs reliable cover in a variety of positions, with the 5 foot 9 star showing no signs of regression despite his advancing years.
He may well be coming to the end of a lengthy and hugely successful playing career, although Gerrard will be keen to squeeze out all he can from the Stevenage-born defender should he remain with the Villans for a further season.
Such a deal won’t be lauded as a key piece of business this summer, yet the Villa boss will simply be delighted if he can manage to secure his services beyond the end of June.
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