[ad_pod ]

According to the Birmingham Mail, Aston Villa are likely to be in the market to sign a new striker in the upcoming summer transfer window. The publication suggest Brentford goal-getter Neal Maupay as an ideal target for Dean Smith to pursue.

What’s the story?

The Villans are certain to need a new man to lead the line ahead of next season, as Tammy Abraham’s loan stay at Villa Park will come to an end at the end of this season.

Abraham’s goals must be replaced, and Smith would be wise to identify potential targets to take up this role as early as possible.

As the Birmingham Mail suggest, Maupay would be the perfect man to take over from the Chelsea loanee at Aston Villa.

Check out the below above to see football played as you've never seen it before... in a maze!

Facing a fight for his signature

Maupay has been in fine form so far this season for Brentford. 

According to Transfermarkt’s stats, the 22-year-old forward has struck 17 times and registered 6 assists in 27 Championship outings. The Frenchman’s all round play has also been very impressive and considering his age it is safe to assume that he will continue to improve in the coming years. 

An investment in Maupay in the summer would be a wise one on the part of Villa, but they may find that they have to fight off Premier League interest, especially if the Brentford striker can maintain his current form.

Smith should do all he can to bring the 22-year-old to Villa Park, especially as he knows the player so well from his own time in charge at Griffin Park. However, the striker may soon be beyond the Midlands outfit's financial reach.