Aston Villa are closing in on the capture of Todd Cantwell from Norwich City as Dean Smith continues his spending spree this summer.
According to Football Insider, Norwich City brace themselves for yet another raid from Aston Villa, this time, for the pursuit of Todd Cantwell. It appears the Villans are well on their way to secure the services of the young attacker, who is currently in the final year of his contract at Carrow Road.
Talks between the two parties have been progressing well, and they are confident an agreement can be reached soon. Once completed, Cantwell would become the second Norwich City player to join Aston Villa this summer, after Emiliano Buendia snubbed Arsenal in favour of a move to Villa Park at the start of last month.
Cantwell may not have been as successful as Buendia last season. But his six goals and seven assists were vital in helping Norwich City gain direct promotion back to the English top-flight. Unlike most players who have an impression in the Championship, the 23-year-old is one of the few who already had experience in the Premier League.
Indeed, Cantwell made quite an impression in the top-flight during the 2019/20 campaign, featuring in all but one Premier League game. His exposure at the highest level of football makes him an appealing target for an Aston Villa side that is undergoing yet another summer of change.
In addition to signing Buendia, the Villans have been linked with a move for Leon Bailey, once again leading Arsenal in the case. The Bayer Leverkusen star and Cantwell can collectively strengthen Aston Villa’s wide-attacking department, with Buendia operating from the middle.
Aston Villa’s renewed ambition in the market is perhaps also an indicator of Jack Grealish’s future at the club. The Englishman has reportedly agreed personal terms with Manchester City, so there is little wonder why Dean Smith is so determined to shore up his attacking options.
To that end, Cantwell could be yet another smart investment for the club. The 23-year-old is still a work-in-progress, but his versatility, dynamism and experience of playing alongside Buendia should come in handy as Aston Villa look to finally push for a European spot in the Premier League next season.
