BROOKS BIG VILLA TARGET
DAVID BROOKS is high on Dean Smith’s wish-list this month.
The Bournemouth playmaker is one of the names under consideration as Villa’s boss seeks to add to his options.
Villa are determined to improve their squad and have undertaken a huge £200million spending spree since arriving in the Premier League 19 months ago.
And Smith (below) has gathered together a core of largely domestic players. Brooks will add to his options up front – if he decides to press the button on the move.
The Wales international had been sidelined with a long-term injury but has played a full part in the Cherries’ season following their relegation from the Premier League.
Brooks, 23, agreed a lengthy deal on the south coast after joining in the summer of 2018 following a spell with Sheffield United.
A series of operations on an ankle problem kept him out of action as Eddie Howe’s side slipped out of the top flight. The former rmer Manchester City trainee operates mainly on the right. Anwar El Ghazi and Trezeguet have filled that spot but ut Smith is keen to strengthen still further.
Villa also have their eyes on Reading’s Michael Olise.
The teenager has impressed during his breakthrough campaign in the Championship and has been a major reason behind the Royals’ promising early-season form.
The 19-year-old signed a three-year professional deal in the summer after spending just a short time in the club’s academy and has prospered after being blooded at the start of this campaign.
Smith is keen to add younger players to his squad list in the hope of developing their potential still further and has been given the finances to move in a depressed market.
Former Villa striker Garry Thompson predicted a bright future for goalscorer Louie Barry, who stunned Liverpool on Friday night.
The 17-year-old showed a touch of quality as he equalised for an inexperienced side before the Reds ran out 4-1 winners at Villa Park.
Thompson said: “He’s got raw pace, good movement and composure in front of goal. They are all key ingredients.
“His strength will improve as he gets older but his movement was good and Louie could be in and around the first team.”