Aston Villa have without a doubt one of the largest squads in the Championship and a number of the players on the periphery of the team will struggle to get many minutes next season.

That can sometimes be the problem when splashing the cash, just as Steve Bruce did in January, the manager can often forget about the talents coming up through the ranks.

However, one winter transfer window arrival who has remained in the reserves is promising defender Jacob Bedeau, who was signed for nearly £1 million from League One outfit Bury and is yet to make a single senior appearance for Villa.

The 17-year-old wasn't even among the starters at his previous club having only featured in seven games for the Shakers prior to his switch to the second-tier.

There's obviously no doubt that the teenage centre-back has bags of potential, but it's time on the pitch that he needs and it can be vital to pick up Football League experience at such a young age.

Bedeau will need to be playing in the Championship next year to develop and perhaps Chris Wilder is the only manager in the division who would be willing to experiment, giving the defender a shot at the big time.

A half-season-long loan deal is the best option because it may not work out for Jacob Bedeau and, if that is the case, then Aston Villa will be able to consider his future in January, rather than waste a whole campaign at Bramall Lane in case he doesn't impress Sheffield United's management team.

If it does work, however, a short move up to the Steel City really could be beneficial to all parties involved.

Aston Villa supporters, does he need to be sent out on loan? Sheffield United fans, would you welcome Bedeau to Bramall Lane? Let us hear your thoughts in the comment section below!