This year will undoubtedly be one of the biggest campaigns in Aston Villa’s history as they look to re-ignite the club’s substantial reputation.
The Midlands club were relegated from the top-flight for the first time in their history this year and were heavily criticised on and off the field.
However, the club are making slow strides into normality for the supporters by appointing reputable manager Roberto Di Matteo and finding a worthy buyer for the club.
They have also made their first signing of the summer, with Tommy Elphick swapping the Premier League for the Championship in a £3 million move from AFC Bournemouth.
Di Matteo is expected to continue dipping into the Premier League market for new additions to ensure that their stay in the Championship is only a brief one.
Football League World Writer, Ashley Williams identifies THREE Premier League players that must be signed by Roberto Di Matteo…
James Wilson
Villa has joined the chase for the highly rated Manchester United striker James Wilson.
Jose Mourinho has issued that he will allow the young striker to leave on loan for the upcoming season, as he is unlikely to get into the first team at Old Trafford.
Wilson spent half of the season on loan at Brighton and was extremely impressive during his time on the south coast – playing a large role in their 3rd place finish in the Championship.
Wilson is a big talent and could prove to be an excellent loan signing, if he decides to make the switch to Villa Park.
Costel Pantilimon
Villa have been heavily linked with the Watford goalkeeper and it is an area that they need improving.
Brad Guzan has been a solid shot stopper during his Villa career, but he made too many individual mistakes last year that resulted in costly defeats for the club.
Roberto Di Matteo has been told that they will have to pay £2 million to bring the Romanian to Villa Park.
The 29 year old played just four times for the North London side last season in their cup games and could be tempted to make a move to Villa for first team football.
Dwight Gayle
Dwight Gayle is ready to leave Crystal Palace - and has been linked with a move to Villa to seek first- team football.
The 25-year-old Crystal Palace forward was hardly used last season and will weigh up his options ahead of next term.
It is thought that Gayle will cost around £10 million, but new owner Dr Tony Xia has promised enough funds to bring quality additions into the club to ensure a swift return to the Premier League and Gayle would certainly fit that category.
Aston Villa fans… Is it essential that Di Matteo sign these Premier League talents? Are these the players to sign to ensure a swift return to the top-flight? Let us know in your thoughts and comments below!