Aston Villa have had a disappointing season so far this campaign and added another poor result on Saturday, drawing 0-0 with strugglers Reading. 

But despite the result, Dean Smith's side remains in the hunt for promotion, sat in ninth place but just four points behind Bristol City who occupy sixth place.

With the transfer market holding more and more sway over modern football, however, clubs can never afford to take their eye off potential targets.

News broke on Monday that Wigan Athletic were keen to bring in talented Yeovil Town right-back Tom James in the summer window.

The 23-year-old has been touted as one of the Football League's brightest up and coming stars for a while now and would be a real coup for the Latics.

But with Villa still suffering plenty of defensive problems, he is somebody that Smith should surely be looking to move for as well.

And here are three reasons why he should...

Lack of depth 

Villa have had problems with depth nearly everywhere this season but none more so than at right-back.

With Alan Hutton now the only first-team choice available in that position it is an area that will definitely need to be strengthened in summer.

James is somebody with a lot of potential and should definitely be looked at by Smith.

Smith's policy

Expect to see far fewer experienced pros coming into Aston Villa from now on.

Smith is intent on rejuvenating the ageing ranks of the club by bringing in players who will increase in value during their time at the club.

James falls neatly into that category.

James Bree

The development of James Bree over the last two years since his arrival from Barnsley will be of immense disappointment to the club.

He found himself shipped out on loan to strugglers Ipswich Town on transfer deadline day last week in a move that could really knock his confidence.

Bringing in James could do two things to Bree. It could give him a much-needed wake-up call or make him push for an exit. Either way, it will put an end to the problem.