Managing Aston Villa: Morgan Rogers transfer done and Unai Emery solves issue amid triple exit.

An exciting chance has emerged for Aston Villa during the January transfer window. Building on their strong start to the season, Unai Emery’s team is currently at fourth in the Premier League standings.

Villa aspires to advance in the FA Cup and make it to the round of 16 in the Europa Conference League, which gives them a chance to win a European trophy in addition to qualifying for the Champions League.

It could prove to be an unforgettable season as Emery continues to work his magic at Villa Park. While high-profile new signings are not expected in January, the addition of one or two players could be the key difference, when Villa’s season finally comes to an end. So, with that being said, Birmingham Live has taken a look at what business Villa should do before the January transfer window slams shut.

New faces at Bodymoor Heath

Middlesbrough midfielder Morgan Rogers could prove to be the exact type of player that the Villa squad is currently lacking. The Villans have had their first two offers rejected but are expected to return with an improved bid, while Boro are reportedly open to selling the 21-year-old if their valuation is met.

The former West Brom academy prospect emerged as a target for Villa earlier this week and has contributed six goals and nine assists in 32 games since signing for Michael Carrick’s side in the summer. Rogers is capable of playing in a variety of positions across the frontline and his versatility would be a vital asset for Villa.

A young midfielder signing from the Championship may not seem the most logical move for a side chasing Champions League football. In recent weeks, though, the absence of Emi Buendia’s unpredictability has been keenly felt. The team have struggled to reach their full flowing best in attack and the addition of Rogers, a rising talent eager to make his mark, could be the spark required to get Villa back fully firing.

The next player who should be on their way to Bodymoor Heath is Kosta Nedeljkovic. It was confirmed, earlier this week, that Villa have agreed a £6.5m deal with Serbian side Crvena Zvezda for the 18-year-old right-back.

Although Nedeljkovic is anticipated to stay in Serbia on loan, Unai Emery’s choice of right-back has proven to be a source of confusion this season. The fact that Matty Cash is the only orthodox right-back in the squad and the use of Ezri Konsa at full-back have been issues. Jeremie Frimpog of Bayer Leverkusen would be the ideal solution to the right-back situation come summertime, but for now, a temporary solution will come with the return of Kaine Kesler-Hayden from his Championship loan spell at Plymouth Argyle. “Aston Villa have assured us that he’s going back to fight for his place, and we wish him well,” Ian Foster of Plymouth’s response regarding the FA Youth Cup winner.

Despite the many calls from supporters for a new striker, West Ham have reportedly seen an offer rejected for Jhon Duran, which tells its own story about the strength of Villa’s squad. Emery continues to place his trust in the 20-year-old and Duran has often had an impact off the bench, scoring four goals this season. Not much more can be asked of a backup striker, who is still learning his trade.

Elsewhere, reported target Hakon Valdimarsson could bolster the club’s goalkeeping options. The role of back-up to Emi Martinez has been held by Robin Olsen but Valdimarsson could prove to be one for the future. His 14 clean sheets in 29 games for Swedish side IF Elsborg last season saw him voted goalkeeper of the year and Villa are claimed to be battling Copenhagen for his signature.

After more than a year in charge, Unai Emery has truly put his stamp on the Villa squad. The majority of the players may still be inherited from other eras, but the manager has transformed them into a squad of top four contenders – though, for some, their time at Villa is coming to an end.

If a good offer were to come along, Leander Dendocker, who is on the fringes of Villa’s squad, would probably fetch the highest sum and should be free to depart. If Dendocker does not go on loan, Tim Iroegbunam will be able to step in for him in the starting lineup and earn crucial experience.

If a good offer were to come along, Leander Dendocker, who is on the fringes of Villa’s squad, would probably fetch the highest sum and should be free to depart. If Dendocker does not go on loan, Tim Iroegbunam will be able to step in for him in the starting lineup and earn crucial experience.

Read more on sportupdates.co.uk