Why Aston Villa should sign John Swift in January

According to Birmingham Mail, Aston Villa have been given a way to sign John Swift of Reading after Sheffield United pulled out of the race. The midfielder was a summer target for both clubs but no move went through. With the player heading into the final 18 months of his contract, it would be interesting to see whether he moves in January.

Profile

John Swift is a 25-year-old English central-midfielder who plays for Championship side Reading. He started his youth career at Portsmouth in 2005 but moved to Chelsea’s academy soon. Progressing through the youth levels, he was promoted to the senior side in 2014.

However, he was sent on three successive loan spells to Rotherham United, Swindon Town and Brentford between 2014 and 2016. He made just one appearance for Chelsea before being let go on a free transfer to Reading.

Since then, he has settled in well at the club, making over 150 appearances, scoring 22 goals and assisting another 23 (source – Transfermarkt). Swift has been a regular part of the England youth sides but is yet to play a game for the senior side.

John Swift can add depth to Villa’s midfield

When Aston Villa went ahead and brought Ross Barkley on loan ahead of this season, it was seen as a huge coup. The on-loan Chelsea man has settled in well but is currently out with an injury. That reduces the quality in Villa’s midfield and if they are to build on their early success, they will need reinforcements.

John Swift looks like a decent option for Villa to reignite their interest in. Capable of playing anywhere in the midfield, he gives Dean Smith all the more reason to push for a move. His primary position is as a central midfielder but he has played in other positions as well. He also has a good record with goal contributions, which makes him an all-round package.

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Yes, Ross Barkley will eventually return to fitness but it is just good sense to add some quality and depth to your side. Last season, Villa were very close to relegation and avoided it by the skin of their teeth.

They would want to avoid something like that again. For that, they must invest some cash in January and get some players. John Swift should be one of them.