Why Aston Villa should plot a January swoop for James Tavernier

Back in June, Daily Mail (h/t The Scottish Sun) were interested in signing Rangers skipper James Tavernier. However, no deal materialized.

James Tavernier, 28, enjoyed a remarkable first campaign under Steven Gerrard, hitting 17 goals and 20 assists from right-back for Rangers. He has been a real star for the Gers over the last couple of seasons.

The right-back has enjoyed a good start to the 2019/20 Scottish Premiership campaign, bagging three goals and six assists.

With Tavernier impressing at the Ibrox, Aston Villa must renew their interest when the transfer window reopens.

Aston Villa are just one place above the relegation zone, having won just once in their last five league games. Despite investing heavily in reinforcing the backline before the start of the season, the Villans have struggled to keep the opposition at bay. They have conceded 30 goals in 17 games.

Clearly, Dean Smith’s side need more quality in central defence if they are to avoid relegation at the first time of asking. In addition to a centre-back, Aston Villa also require a right-back. Frederic Guilbert joined the club before the start of the season and has done extremely well, both defensively and going forward.

But Guilbert needs competition if he is to unlock his true potential and that’s something veteran Ahmed Elmohamady isn’t exactly providing. That’s why the Villans would do well by signing James Tavernier.

A technically gifted player, Tavernier has improved defensively under Gerrard. He is an attacking right-back with excellent crossing, shooting and set-piece abilities. His 17 goals and 20 assists for the Gers last season are a testament to his qualities going forward.

More Aston Villa News:

• Why Aston Villa should quickly snap up free agent Romain Alessandrini
• Why Jack Marriott would be a smart signing for Aston Villa
• Why Aston Villa should complete a £10m deal for Jed Wallace in January

Defensively, the 28-year-old has made 2.2 tackles, 0.6 interceptions, 3.6 clearances and 1 block in the Europa League this season. [Courtesy: Whoscored.com]

Verdict

Tavernier is an experienced player with the attributes to make an instant impact at Villa Park. Hence, Smith should go for the Rangers star next month.