Aston Villa have been linked with a surprise move for former Spurs and Cardiff defender Steven Caulker following his departure from Scottish side Dundee.

Caulker was once the golden boy of English football, representing Great Britain in the Olympics as well as earning an England cap. He left Spurs for £8m, a figure repeated when he left Cardiff City, and seemingly had a brilliant career ahead of him.

He's since battled personal demons and even took a year out of the game, but at 26-years old he's still young enough to make a come back. His spell at Dundee has whet the appetite for a bigger stage.

He's been linked with a move to Arsenal Kiev in the Ukraine, but it seems as though Steve Bruce is preparing to offer him a route back into the English game.

Would it be a wise move by Villa? Our Football League experts discuss.

Alfie Burns

This is an interesting one, as Villa’s defence does need some reinforcements.

Bringing in Caulker would be a risk, but if it works, it could help transform Villa.

Bruce needs to give it careful consideration, but might also be forced to move quickly.

George Dagless

It could work.

He's still got plenty to offer and plenty of years left in the game.

If he can get back to the level he was at Cardiff, Villa will be laughing.

That, though, is easier said than done.

Sam Rourke

This could be a masterstroke.

Caulker has struggled to find a 'home' in recent seasons, and he needs a new platform to exhibit his qualities.

He has all the attributes to flourish in the second tier, and I'm convinced this could turn out to be a shrewd addition for Villa.

George Harbey

It’s a smart signing by Villa if it materialises - Caulker has experience from playing in the top flight and desperately need a centre half.

If they can get him up to full match fitness then it is a good signing for them

 

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