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It’s the end of the season, meaning that a number of players are being released from their contracts (or rather, their contracts are not being extended) for one reason or another. Some of the most high profile names who will become a free agent in just a number of days include Jack Wilshire and Yaya Toure – both of which are a little out of Aston Villa’s league – especially in regards to wages.
One of the key positions that Aston Villa possibly need to fill is the goalkeeping position. With the departure of Sam Johnstone, and probable non-return of him next season – Villa are left with injury prone Jed Steer, Mark Bunn and Matija Sarkic as goalkeeping options.
We’ve picked five free agent goalkeeping options that Aston Villa could find themselves considering in just a few weeks, ranking them from least to most likely.
The Goalkeeper Free Agents;
#5 – Boaz Myhill
Boaz Myhill is being released by local rivals West Bromwich Albion this summer, and whilst the keeper is reaching the twilight of his career, he could provide an interesting goalkeeping option. At the age of thirty-five, this signing is incredibly unlikely and we wouldn’t be surprised to see Boaz Myhill retire at the end of the transfer window – unless of course he finds a club.
#4 – Joel Robles
Perhaps most famous for warming the Everton bench for five full seasons, Joel Robles is finally out of contract at Goodison Park. With just 65 appearances over five years, the Spaniard has sat on the bench an astonishing 149 times – meaning the keeper could be a little rusty. There are suggestions that he has already agreed to join his hometown club of Getafe – however if that deal does fall through, Robles could make an incredible statement.
#3 – Tim Krul
The Dutch goalkeeper who is synonymous with the sticks at St James’ Park has plied his trade for Brighton as of late – or has rather done a similar job to Joel Robles at Everton. The former Netherlands international who is famous for being subbed on by Louis Van Gaal and saving a penalty has suffered with injury problems in the last few years, but should he remain fit, Krul could be exactly what Aston Villa need.
#2 – Rafael
Brazilian stopper Rafael has not played a professional game for Napoli since the 2014/15 season and is subsequently being released this summer. At 28 years old he is the youngest goalkeeper on this list, but potentially the biggest risk. In 45 games for Napoli since his arrival there, he has conceded 50 goals – which isn’t a great return, but it’s not awful either.
#1 – Wayne Hennessey
Perhaps the most likely goalkeeper from this list, Wales international Wayne Hennessey could find himself linking with fellow internationals James Chester and Neil Taylor at Villa Park this summer. With an abundance of Premier League experience from his time at Wolverhampton Wanderers, the 6ft 4″ keeper has matured in his time at Crystal Palace and could be something to consider for Steve Bruce.
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Words by Regan Foy (@FindFoy) // Follow us on Twitter (@claretandview)
