Hull City chasing ex-Villa loanee

Steve Bruce, boss of FA Cup finalists Hull City, is interested in bringing in Chelsea left back Ryan Bertrand this summer. After spending the past few years on loan spells at various clubs (like Aston Villa), Bertrand obviously is interested in a permanent switch in order to try to get his career on track. Even though Ashley Cole left the club at seasons-end, chances of playing time back at Stamford Bridge are limited with Cesar Azpiliqueta established at left back and Patrick van Aanholt seemingly the next option.

The rumoured price for Bertrand is £5.25, a reasonable amount for a 24-year-old English left back who has won the Champions League. Early on during his loan spell at Villa Park, it looked as if he would possibly be brought in permanently during the summer. With the low budget that Paul Lambert has to work with, and no eminent new owner, it now looks unlikely. Missing out on Bertrand is unfortunate because despite the left back making a few mistakes, he is a much better option than either Joe Bennett or Antonio Luna. Also, signing him would show some ambition by the club, signing players with a decent pedigree could set the bar higher than the level it has been at lately.

Would you have liked to see Bertrand (permanently) at Villa? Let us know in the comments!