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Scouting Aston Villa Transfer Target: Luton’s James Justin

By Josh Tonti

LUTON, ENGLAND - APRIL 23: James Justin of Luton Town is tackled by Scott Wagstaff of AFC Wimbledon during the Sky Bet League One match between Luton Town and AFC Wimbledon at Kenilworth Road on April 23, 2019 in Luton, United Kingdom. (Photo by Alex Burstow/Getty Images)
LUTON, ENGLAND - APRIL 23: James Justin of Luton Town is tackled by Scott Wagstaff of AFC Wimbledon during the Sky Bet League One match between Luton Town and AFC Wimbledon at Kenilworth Road on April 23, 2019 in Luton, United Kingdom. (Photo by Alex Burstow/Getty Images) /
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21-year-old Luton Town defender-sometimes-midfielder James Justin is attracting interest from several clubs in the first and second tiers of English football, Aston Villa included.

Everyone say it with me: first name James, last name Justin.

James. Justin. – not Justin James, or any other variation thereof. I just know that name is going to give many people problems for a few weeks.

Now that we have that out of the way, let’s introduce Aston Villa’s newest transfer target from Luton Town. James Justin is a 21-year-old fullback/holding midfielder/wide midfielder who’s enjoyed a fiery start to his young career. His career accomplishments in just a few seasons mirror those of 10+ year professional veterans. In two seasons, he has aided Luton to consecutive promotions from League Two to the Championship, complete with a League One title this year and a 94-point season. He was twice named Hatters’ Young Player of the Season + picked up an accolade in EFL Young Player of the Month for November 2018. Best of all, he claimed a spot in PFA’s League One Team of the Year this season at the left-back position.

What’s so interesting about that award is that left-back might not even be his best position. After all, he’s right-footed. It’s been reported that Villa are interested in the player’s services for around £7.5 million.

The claret and blues are not alone, however, in their pursuit of the former England Under-20 international. Stoke City and Leicester City are kicking the tires as well. Below, you can watch Justin score driven goal from outside the penalty area:

If you can believe it, Justin was indeed in the starting lineup when Luton knocked Villa out of the EFL Cup two seasons ago in August 2016.

What would be his future hypothetical role at Aston Villa? Who knows! Right-back might be his best position, but the club have Caen defender Fred Guilbert incoming in the summer. He could continue his development on the opposite flank or try his hand in midfield. The opportunities are endless, but first, Villa need to get ready for Monday’s final.

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