Aston Villa transfer target Ashley Young could solve a major problem for Dean Smith in the Premier League next season.

What's the story?

The Athletic have claimed in recent days that Smith is keen on signing the £120k-a-week earning ace, and that he sees him as a valuable addition to his first-team squad.

Solving Dean Smith's problem

While Villa enjoyed a superb campaign in the Premier League last season, Smith was very fortunate with the lack of real significant injuries to any of his key first-team stars - barring the late Jack Grealish one of course.

The likes of Ollie Watkins, Ezri Konsa and Matt Targett for example stayed clear from the treatment table, and were able to perform week-in and week-out for Villa.

But in respect to Targett, and Matty Cash, the real lack of cover for Villa at right-back and left-back is something that simply needs to be addressed this summer, and Young's arrival would certainly do that.

With Ahmed Elmohamady and Neil Taylor both being confirmed to leave Villa Park following the expiration of their contracts, it's absolutely imperative the Midlands club bring in cover for their first-team stars.

And in the versatile Young, who can play on either side, they would be getting someone with tonnes of Premier League experience from his time at Villa and Manchester United, and can fill in whenever needed.

Despite his age, he's come in for some fine praise, with Andreas Brehme a big fan of his during his spell at the San Siro.

The Inter and Germany legend said: "He’s a great player and has many years of experience in England.  I think he’s a fine left-back, strong in technique and mentality."

While Smith will be hoping that both Targett and Cash can stay injury-free, having valuable cover in the shape of someone like Young would go a long way to ensuring that Villa don't get found short.

Johan Lange could solve a major problem for Smith by landing the veteran full-back.

Meanwhile, David Ornstein has dropped an exciting Aston Villa transfer update...