Aston Villa transfer news: Steven Gerrard to land Rory Wilson as Rangers teenager takes big leap towards switch
Aston Villa are closing on the signing of Rory Wilson, with the Rangers teenager taking a big step closer towards a move to Villa Park.
Steven Gerrard’s side have made a solid start to the summer window with a number of deals already announced. Indeed, they confirmed the permanent capture of Philippe Coutinho, with Boubacar Kamara, Robin Olsen and Diego Carlos also agreeing moves. However, their next move looks to be one for the future in the shape of Wilson.
The 16-year-old scored a staggering 49 goals for Rangers’ youth sides last season, leading to a plethora of scouts flocking to watch. Indeed, Liverpool and Manchester United are among who have reportedly been tracking the talented teen.
However, it is Villa who have emerged as the strongest contenders for his signature with talks held over the weekend.
Under the ownership of Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens, Villa have put a strong emphasis on signing up some of the game’s bright young talents.
Indeed, they now look poised to add Wilson to their development squad too. They are understood to have a struck a deal, worth £300,000 with Rangers for Wilson, with the player recently confirming that he expects to leave Ibrox.
As per Fabrizio Romano, Wilson has now agreed personal terms with Villa and will officially sign on July 1.
The presence of former Rangers boss Gerrard at Villa Park is believed to have proved the decisive factor.
Gerrard knows Wilson and his family well from his time at Ibrox. As per Romano, that was a big factor in helping to lure him to Birmingham.
He will sign an initial deal to take him through to his 17th birthday on January 5, 2023, when he will then professional forms.
Rory Wilson transfer another smart move by Villa
The signing of Rory Wilson looks to be another very impressive coup by Aston Villa.
Since Gerrard’s appointment as manager, the club has made a number of clever signings to strengthen the first-team.
However, Gerrard knows the importance of building a talented Under-23s squad too. To that end, the club has made a number of smart, six-figure signings on young players in recent times.
Indeed, left-back Ben Chrisene and centre-back Josh Feeney are among two young stars to arrive for big investments.
And Tim Iroegbunam, an 18-year-old midfielder who signed from West Brom last summer, has also made three Premier League appearances.
At 16, Wilson may take a few years before he is first-team ready at Villa. However, he could ultimately make the cut at Villa under Gerrard’s management. And he will hopefully prove an astute signing who will save the club millions of pounds in the process.
