In a recent interview with Football Insider, former Premier League forward Kevin Campbell has urged Aston Villa to land Bournemouth striker Joshua King, but he believes that the Villans could face an “auction” if they intend to make a move to sign the Norwegian talent in January. Campbell said,
“I definitely think so.
“Villa are a few pieces away from being an accomplished Premier League side, especially with Jack Grealish, Ross Barkley and Ollie Watkins they’ve got a nice feel to them right now.
“If you add a couple of players and the depth becomes a bit stronger you start to think ‘ooh, hold on a minute, they could have a right go’.
“That would be a good signing, Josh King is a good player and he’s been coveted by quite a few clubs so I’m sure Bournemouth wouldn’t mind an auction.
“Although they wouldn’t like to lose him, if it’s an auction the more transfer funds they can get.”
King’s Lacklustre Form In The EFL Championship This Season
King has made an underwhelming start to this campaign as he has struggled to be productive with his performances in the final third. He has made just six appearances for the Cherries but is yet to open his goal-scoring account this season.
The 28-year-old has failed to give a good account of himself based on his average of 1.0 shots, 0.7 key passes and 0.5 dribbles per 90 minutes in the EFL Championship. He has also given away the ball a bit cheaply at times after completing 78% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
King scored six goals and provided four assists in 27 matches in the Premier League last season. Hence, he needs to secure a move to a top-flight club in January as he is good enough to play at the highest level week in week out.
What Does The Norwegian Frontman Bring To The Table?
King is blessed with electric pace and can make some well-timed runs in behind the opponent’s backline. He is usually a composed finisher in the final third but has failed to bang in any goals this season as he is not enjoying his football at the Vitality Stadium right now.
Standing at 1.87m, the 51-time Norwegian international has the height and the strength to hold the ball up and get others involved in the attacking third of the field. Plus, he is not shy of working hard for his side and is versatile enough to play anywhere across the frontline.
Should The Villans Get King On Board In January?
Aston Villa would be wise to include themselves in the race to recruit King this winter. He will add a lot of quality to Dean Smith’s frontline and could strike up an exciting attacking partnership with Ollie Watkins and Jack Grealish at Villa Park. Hence, the Villans should consider getting King on board when the transfer window reopens at the start of next month.
