Liverpool in talks to sign Jaden Philogene, Aston Villa exit on the cards if tempting offer submitted

We’re delighted to welcome former Aston Villa full-back Alan Hutton as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Villa Park…

Jaden Philogene has a decision to make with Liverpool in talks to sign the Aston Villa sensation, according to Alan Hutton.

Anfield Watch reported a week ago that Liverpool have opened discussions to sign the 21-year-old attacker, who’s performed well in the first team during pre-season friendlies.

It is understood that Jurgen Klopp is a fan of the England Under-20 international but Newcastle United are also keen on him.

Philogene came off the bench for the closing stages of Villa’s 5-1 defeat at Newcastle on Saturday (12 August), meaning that he’s very much in the first-team picture for Unai Emery.

However, Hutton can see why Liverpool would be an attractive prospect for the Villa academy product, who spent last season out on loan at Cardiff City in the Championship.

“I saw that. It’s an interesting one,” Hutton told Villa News.

“He was given the opportunity in pre-season by Unai Emery to go and shine and that’s exactly what he’s gone and done.

“There’s an opportunity for him to play at Villa this season.

“If you look at all the players they’re trying to sign, they’re always wingers or players who can take people on in wide areas to create and make things happen.

“Philogene does that, he’s proven that in pre-season.

“Again, the difficult thing is when a big team like Liverpool comes in for you, it’s hard to turn them down. But from the player’s point of view, where does he see his best option going forward?

“Yes, Liverpool are a fantastic football club with a great history. Is he going there to play or is he going there to be someone for the future?

“Or does he stay at Aston Villa, fight for his place, get opportunities to play in the Premier League this season? He might not get that at Liverpool so it’s really how he sees his future and his development.

“I think he’s got a better opportunity in the first team at Aston Villa.”

In other Aston Villa news, Emery could be boosted by the signing of a Manchester City player who’s linked with a move to Villa Park.