Aston Villa are reportedly set to make Swedish international Robin Olsen their fourth signing of the January transfer window.
According to Express and Star, Premier League side, Aston Villa are closing in on the capture of Robin Olsen. He is all set to become their fourth signing of what has been a busy January transfer window.
The Midlands club is undergoing a renaissance of sorts under Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard. The former Rangers boss has helped the club improve their results in recent weeks and has permeated a sense of optimism among their fanbase.
Villa are currently knocking at the door of the top half of the Premier League table. A strong finish to the season could see them finish in the top ten and maybe even take a punt at gaining European qualification. One aspect that can aid them in doing so is a good winter transfer window, and the club appears to be doing just that.
Villa signed Lucas Digne from Everton and landed Brazilian star Philippe Coutinho on loan. Both players impressed against Manchester United at the weekend, with the latter especially impactful off the bench. Adding Olsen will give Gerrard more ammo ahead of the remainder of the season. Youngster Kerr Smith was also brought in from Dundee United, but he is one for the future.
The 32-year-old is an AS Roma star but is currently on loan at Sheffield United. A move to Aston Villa may not get him as much playing time as at Bramall Lane, but there is much to be gained. He can be part of a special rebuild and will compete with Emiliano Martinez for the starting goalkeeper’s role.
The Argentine is an excellent shot-stopper on his day but is susceptible to errors. He made one such error at the weekend, gifting Manchester United an early lead. Providing him with competition is certain to keep him on his toes. Olsen is a Swedish international who is an experienced head in the game and is a massive upgrade over Jed Steer and Viljami Sinisalo.
Olsen has made 11 appearances for the Blades this season. There is growing confidence that his stay at Sheffield United will be cut short, and he will join Aston Villa this month. Gerrard certainly has big plans for the club, and the management appears ready to back him.
Aston Villa chief executive Christian Purslow has revealed that the club is open to doing more business in the January transfer window. The Midlands outfit is keen to strengthen in central defence and midfield. Who else will follow Olsen through the door remains to be seen.