Aston Villa’s goalkeeping situation has been under the spotlight for a lot of the season.

Orjan Nyland, the man trusted with the No.1 jersey at the start of the season, never convinced, and it was no surprise to see Dean Smith move to sign an alternative at the earliest of opportunities in January.

Lovre Kalinic was the man he targeted, with the Croatian international arriving and becoming No.1 almost instantly.

However, some interesting transfer news is developing across the Championship, with Brentford open to the sale of Daniel Bentley, according to a report from the Mail Online.

Smith worked with Bentley at Griffin Park and will understand what a fine young goalkeeper he is.

Although Kalinic has great pedigree, we take a look at THREE reasons why Villa might be starting to regret signing him after this emerging transfer news…

Smith’s relationship with Bentley

As mentioned, Smith worked with Bentley during their time together at Griffin Park.

It was a hugely successful period for Brentford and Smith had full confidence in his goalkeeper.

That kind of trust between a manager and a player can’t be underestimated.

Had this development come about in January, we might’ve seen Villa move to reunite the two. 

Cost

Kalinic cost Villa a reported £7m in January, which is a significant fee.

Bentley is entering the final 18 months of his deal with Brentford and signing him might’ve been a lot cheaper for Villa.

Whilst the club’s financial situation is better than it was in the summer, they would be wise to not waste money.

Kalinic isn’t massively convincing

This might feel harsh, as Kalinic is improving game by game in a Villa shirt.

However, he hasn’t solved their defensive problems and Smith will still be concerned.

Bentley, who kept a clean sheet against Villa last night, has shown his worth in the Championship over an extended period.

You could certainly argue that he’d be better for this crop of Villa players.