Aston Villa told West Ham star, ‘or a younger version of him’, is perfect fit for Unai Emery system

Micah Richards thinks that during the next January transfer window, Aston Villa ought to pursue a West Ham player, or “someone like him.”

In an attempt to strike a balance between their domestic and European goals, the Hammers are predicted to recruit a new frontman during the winter transfer window—a move that is strikingly similar to what Villa are doing at the moment.

Because of Michail Antonio’s injury, David Moyes is currently forced to rely more on Danny Ings, the backup forward, while Jarrod Bown has also been used through the center.

Richards thinks Unai Emery would substitute Ings, a former Villa striker who was used to playing alone up front with Ollie Watkins, on a rotating basis.

The former England and Manchester City player said, via West Ham Zone on The Rest is Football Podcast: “It’s hard to play the system and then have someone join the club who isn’t expecting to play every week. That’s why it’s challenging. He continued.

“Someone younger who is similar to Danny Ings, but not exactly Danny Ings.”

The 31-year-old only left Villa last January but Richards thinks that his services are more needed at

Villa Park than at the London Stadium.

Ings, who signed a £25 million contract with Villa in August 2021, scored 14 goals in 52 games during his debut season.

He has only scored three goals in 35 games for the Hammers, making life in London even more difficult for him. He has also frequently been forced to watch from the sidelines.

Consequently, Ings is anticipated to become available for transfer if West Ham is able to sign another forward.

When Villa returns to action in the Europa Conference League on Thursday night, they will play Zrinjski Mostar.

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