EXCLUSIVE: Aston Villa monitoring teenage star dubbed ‘new Grealish’

Aston Villa are closely following the progress of Tyler Dibling, FootballTransfers can reveal.

The 18-year-old has already drawn attention from several Premier League clubs, but we are told that it is Unai Emery’s side that are leading the charge. Furthermore, it’s our understanding that Villa analysts have even compared his playing style to former Villa favourite Jack Grealish, a tribute to Dibling’s creativity and flair on the field.

Dibling’s journey has included a brief stint with Chelsea, where sources suggest he struggled to find his footing and ultimately returned to Southampton.

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While several English clubs have taken note of Dibling’s promise, Villa have emerged as a serious contender, impressing the player’s family and building rapport.

Under the watchful eye of manager Emery and his coaching staff, Villa plans to monitor Dibling closely this season, gauging his development and potential.

There’s also talk of a possible approach from another club in January, but Villa are confident that they’ll have the opportunity to sit down with Dibling and his representatives at the end of the season to discuss his future.

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Martin wants to keep young talent

Dibling is one of the most talented players in England’s youth set-up and appears destined to reach the very top of European football. His displays in the Premier League this season have been a standout.

In April 2022, he went viral for scoring a hat-trick of virtually identical goals against Newcastle United in the Premier League 2, and he joined Chelsea that summer, before heading to St Mary’s in 2023.

Saints boss Russell Martin spoke about the youngster last season, saying that Southampton will do everything they can to keep hold of him, even in the face of interest from Champions League clubs: “When you’re 18 and you play in the Premier League to the level he’s played at, I think every club in the world probably looks at you.

“He’s ours. The club has turned down bids for him since I’ve been here. The speculation is nothing for him or for me. We are in a strong position. I’m sure we will look at securing that and strengthening that even more because if he carries on doing what he’s doing then he will deserve that.”