Paul Robinson has suggested that Aston Villa may look to extend Scott Hogan's contract if they're relegated, which may be a significant obstacle for Birmingham City in their push to sign him permanently.

Hogan has not featured for the Premier League side since 2018 but has looked revitalised on loan with the Blues during the current campaign.

The 27-year-old underwhelmed for Stoke City in the first half of the season but has been fantastic since joining Birmingham in January.

Hogan has scored seven goals and provided one assist in his eight Championship appearances for the Blues and quickly become an integral part of the side.

The striker's contract at Villa is set to expire in the summer and Pep Clotet has revealed previously that he is determined to sign him permanently then.

It appears that may be more difficult than previously thought as, speaking to Football Insider, Robinson has suggested that the Premier League club may look to extend his current deal.

He explained: "Any player like that you are going to stand up and take notice but I think it depends massively on what league Villa are in next year.

“Hogan is doing himself no harm, he is scoring goals at that level regularly and playing well, so it would be silly not to put him back into the ranks.

Once the Premier League season resumes, Villa will be facing a tough battle to ensure they can remain in the English top flight.

They're 19th as things stand, two points away from safety with 10 games left of the 2019/20 campaign.

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The Verdict

You can certainly see where Robinson is coming from here. Hogan has shown he has the quality to thrive in the Championship and Villa may feel he will be useful if they're relegated.

The 27-year-old may not choose to stay with his parent club but their intent is still likely to make life more difficult for Birmingham.

They will surely want to do all they can to ensure he joins permanently in the summer and Villa's interest looks as though it could be a significant obstacle for them.

In many ways, it may end up being good news for the Blues if their fierce rivals don't get relegated.