Derby set to bid for out-of-favour Villa striker

Andreas Weimann looks set to be the first casualty under Tim Sherwood's regime, with Derby County eyeing up a £2 million bid for the Austrian.

Just this week, Tim Sherwood revealed his plans to overhaul the Aston Villa squad, with a number of players told to find new clubs. Whilst no names were specifically mentioned, Weimann was one that was many expected to be departing. Indeed, since Sherwood's arrival, Weimann has barely been seen, with the likes of Jack Grealish and Charles N'Zogbia preferred.

After bursting onto the scene with a brace against Manchester United in 2012, Weimann was a wanted man, linked to the likes of Inter Milan and Tottenham in 2013. However, Weimann's Villa career has since largely stagnated, indeed, inconsistency is a trait that has plagued him in recent years. Despite this, a player of his potential and quality should commander a higher fee than the £2 million that is reported. However, if Sherwood wants rid of Weimann, that fee sounds about right. Combined with the seemingly legitimate nature of the source, it seems likely that Andi Weimann's Villa days are numbered.

In an ideal world, Andi Weimann would serve as a useful squad player for Villa, but that looks increasingly unlikely. At Derby, Weimann would be an important first team player, and at least one season in the Championship could give the Austrian a valuable confidence boost that he sorely needs. With this in mind, perhaps a loan move would be more suitable, but his potential exit looks to be a permanent one. Finally, it is worth noting that Andi has a young child, and Derby is close enough that he would not need to move. Considering this, a move to Derby may be best for him on both a personal and professional basis.

Something of a fan favourite, it will be a shame to see Andi go, but it's looking more and more likely. Do you think Andi still has a part to play at Villa? Let us know in the comments below.