Reports claim Aston Villa are keen on Fulham goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli but may face competition from Bournemouth. The Villans are known to be in the market for a new keeper and Burnley’s England star Tom Heaton appeared to be on their radar. It is unknown whether that particular avenue is still open but the Daily Mail are now suggesting that Dean Smith has moved his sights south and is looking at the Cottagers’ back-up custodian.
Related: Villa Close In On Bees’ Stopper
Bettinelli, capped once at England Under-21 level, was called up to the England squad in 2018 but has yet to play under Gareth Southgate and he will need regular first-team football to stand any chance of full international honours.
Jed Steer has recently signed a new contract at Villa Park but Smith wants a new man between the posts, with Stoke’s Jack Butland also thought to be a target until the Potters revealed his £30m price tag. It remains to be seen if Villa can get a deal over the line as Cherries chief Eddie Howe is also said to be an admirer of the 27-year-old Londoner and may firm up his interest with a bid before the window closes.
