Aston Villa’s pursuit of Morgan Rogers from Middlesbrough has hit a stumbling block as they refuse to meet the eight-figure asking price. The Premier League side has been linked with the 21-year-old forward, but Boro is determined to keep him and has rejected all of Villa’s approaches so far. With concerns over the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules, many clubs have struggled to bring in new players this January. Villa boss Unai Emery has suggested that the club may not make any significant signings this month. Meanwhile, reports suggest that Villa is also considering Norwich City’s Jonathan Rowe as an alternative to Rogers.
Villa’s interest in Rogers came as a surprise to Boro, who had only signed him from Manchester City for around £1 million six months prior. Boro’s position is strengthened by a future sell-on clause, which means that City is entitled to a percentage of any fee received, and they are therefore likely to hold out for a substantial amount.
Sky Sports’ EFL expert, Don Goodman, also expressed his surprise at Villa’s interest, stating that he does not believe Rogers is ready for a step-up to the top-flight at this stage. While Rogers has recorded six assists this season, Goodman has not seen the consistency and Premier League star quality in him yet. However, he acknowledges that Rogers is only 21 years old and has time on his side. Goodman also notes that coming through the Manchester City academy system holds Rogers in higher regard.
