Crawley Town's Jeremy Kelly lifts the ball past Phillip Marshall. (Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Images)
Aston Villa are positioning themselves for a number of players ahead of the January transfer window, one of which is 21-year-old ace Philip Marshall.
Unai Emery has been a revelation since he joined the club and The Aston Villa manager could let the striker movedespite the fact that the club seems to recognize his talent.
It's a sign of respect from the club that they are willing to accept Emery's advice and requests, and the Spaniard has already shown what can be achieved with the support of the board.
Phillip Marshall is in line for a new contract with Aston Villa.
Highly-rated young goalkeeper Phillip Marshall, currently on loan at Crewe Alexandra, is in line for a new contract with Aston Villa in accordance with Football insider.
The publication notes that while Marshall's contract did not expire until 2027, it did in 2022 when he signed his latest extension at the club.
Emery is clearly keen to protect Villa's investment given the goalkeeper has been with the club since 2018 (transfer market), and the offer of a new deal should be enough to force the player to keep his registration at Villa Park, even if it will be some time before he can truly make his mark there.
READ MORE: Aston Villa player could return to club in 2025
Aston Villa looks to the future
With so many games being played by the more successful teams these days, clubs need at least two players in each position.
For the specialist field of goalkeepers, it is arguable that at least three should be available at all times.
Villa are clearly looking to the future with a deal offer to Marshall, and if they continue on their current trajectory, there's every chance we'll see the keeper in action Major league in due time.