Aston Villa: Analyzing the potential outgoing transfers in January

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BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – JULY 30: Tommy Elphick of Villa in action during the pre- season friendly between Aston Villa and Middlesbrough at Villa Park on July 30, 2016 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) /

CB – Tommy Elphick (Permanent or Loan)

This one comes with a big caveat. Though he’s played three times all season, Elphick probably should not be moved until both John Terry and Christopher Samba work their way back to full fitness.

At present, Elphick is the fifth-option in central defense, behind midfielder-turned-defender Mile Jedinak. Elphick has one year left on his deal after this summer and is a good bet to move in January if everyone is back to full fitness. A plethora of young, talented defenders in the Villa Academy are looking to move-up the ranks as well.

Easah Suliman, Mitch Clark, Jacob Bedeau all are pushing for cameo appearances. Moving the 30-year old Elphick on-loan is not the most appealing option, but the club could save a little money by avoiding his wages. Then again, a £1 million transfer sum feels more attractive. It takes two to tangle, however, and Villa executives failed to find a willing buyer in the summer.

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