Thursday, July 10, 2008

Transfer Rumors: Aston Villa Eyes Three American Players

Aston Villa is reportedly looking at adding three American players to its ranks on the defensive side of the field. Sheffield Wednesday's Frank Simek is being eyed for defensive help.

Goalkeepers Brad Guzan (Chivas USA) and Brad Friedel(Blackburn) are also rumored to be on Martin O'Neill's wish list. Guzan would still have to get papers to play in England, but Freidel is already in possession of a work permit. The problem is that Freidel is hugely popular and still quite effective for Blackburn. I am not sure what Paul Ince's feelings are toward Big Brad Freidel, but Friedel has been with the Rovers since 2000 (309 appearances) and recently signed a contract extension until 2010. I am sure that Blackburn would put a much higher price tag on Friedel than the MLS will put on Guzan for his transfer fee.

Still, if Guzan goes, he will join Freidel, Tim Howard, and Marcus Hahnemann as the Americans minding net for Premier League Clubs.

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