Aston Villa face Premier League competition for Jan Bednarek transfer after Southampton stance is verified

West Ham United have joined Aston Villa in the race to sign Southampton defender Jan Bednarek, according to a reporter.

Bednarek emerged as a potential target for Aston Villa in recent hours. After losing summer signing Diego Carlos to a long-term injury, it could be important for Steven Gerrard’s side to find another defensive option.

With that in mind, they have been linked with Southampton’s Bednarek by The Athletic. And the story has since been taken on by talkSPORT reporter, Alex Crook.

According to Crook, Aston Villa do indeed have a ‘genuine’ interest in Bednarek. What’s more, Southampton are ‘likely to sell’ for the right price.

However, it might not necessarily be to Aston Villa. Crook has claimed that West Ham are also showing an interest in the Poland international, along with an anonymous club from abroad.

West Ham recently found themselves in a similar situation to Aston Villa in terms of their defence. Summer arrival Nayef Aguerd will be on the sidelines for a while, prompting his buyers to go back into the market.

Indeed, West Ham have since purchased Thilo Kehrer from Paris Saint-Germain. Therefore, whether they need another new face at the back is debatable.

But their interest in Bednarek could be there, which is something Aston Villa will have to keep in mind if they are to make a move for him. Any plans may have to be sped up, just in case.

Southampton have Bednarek under contract until 2025. However, it seems they are willing to move him on this summer – yet they could have him lining up against them in the Premier League still.

Aston Villa still make most sense for Jan Bednarek

Either Aston Villa or West Ham may be hoping to benefit. Southampton – who also have Mohammed Salisu, Armel Bella-Kotchap, Jack Stephens and Lyanco on the books – would be keen to ensure they do not come to regret any decision they make.

But after not making any major sales this summer, it could be time for them to balance the books by selling someone like Bednarek before the summer window closes.

So, where should he go? Given the injury to Diego Carlos, maybe the Aston Villa move would make more sense.

Gerrard has dismissed the idea that signing another centre-back is an absolute necessity. But if they want to strive towards the top half, perhaps it would help.

Bednarek is not of the same pedigree as Diego Carlos, but that might not matter. They could just do with another option at the back to help see them through, so will be hoping for further progress in that regard.

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