Why Aston Villa should sign Antonee Robinson in the summer

According to The Mirror (h/t Daily Mail), Aston Villa are considering to sign Wigan left-back Antonee Robinson in the summer transfer window.

The report claims that Robinson’s £10m deadline day move to AC Milan collapsed last month and that Chelsea and Newcastle United trying to snap him up at the end of the season.

Robinson, 22, came through Everton’s youth ranks and initially joined Wigan Athletic on loan two summers back. His move was made permanent last July and he has been in fine form for the Latics this campaign.

His impressive performances convinced AC Milan to sign him but a deal didn’t go through and he stayed put at the DW Stadium. And this summer, he could be set for a move to any top-flight English club, as per the report.

Meanwhile, the Villans haven’t been at their best and are fighting tooth and nail to survive in the Premier League.

Dean Smith made 12 new signings in the summer but that hasn’t helped. Matt Targett and Neil Taylor are the only available left-backs at his disposal. While the former has featured in 17 games, the Welshman has not convinced for a starting role. In 10 games, he hasn’t contributed much to the team.

Therefore, Villa need to improve the depth in the backline and that would be possible if they enter the market in the summer for Antonee Robinson.

The 22-year-old has made 30 appearances for Wigan in this campaign and has a goal to his name. His bright displays earned him a call-up to the USA squad in May 2018 and since then, he has made 7 appearances with the national team.

Robinson has registered an average of 2.3 tackles, 2 interceptions and 2.8 clearances per game in the league, according to Whoscored. At Villa Park, left-back Taylor’s numbers are not up to the standards. The former Swansea man has registered just 1.1 tackles, 0.9 interceptions and 2 clearances per game. And these numbers are proof that Robinson would be an upgrade for Neil Taylor.

Read more

• Why Aston Villa should avoid signing Alexander Sorloth in the summer
• Why Aston Villa were right to not sign Matej Vydra in January
• Why Aston Villa were right in signing Borja Baston on deadline day

Verdict

With Taylor ageing (31), it’s the right time for Smith to bring in Robinson, who would add depth to the squad.

Therefore, Aston Villa must go all out to secure the services of the youngster.